Semax and Selank are often mentioned together. Both are synthetic heptapeptides developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and both end in a stabilizing Pro-Gly-Pro tail. They are built on different parent peptides and appear in different research areas. This is a scientific comparison, not guidance on use.
Side-by-side comparison
| Semax | Selank | |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence | Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro | Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro |
| Length | 7 amino acids | 7 amino acids |
| Parent peptide | ACTH(4-10) fragment | Tuftsin (immune peptide) |
| Main research areas | BDNF expression, monoamine systems, ischemia models | GABA-related gene expression, enkephalin metabolism, immune gene expression |
| Status in Russia | Registered medicine (nasal drops) | Sold as a medicine |
| FDA approval | Not approved | Not approved |
| FDA advisory committee, July 2026 | Voted 8–5 to recommend for compounding list (non-binding) | Not reviewed |
Key studies
Semax: BDNF in rodent brain (Dolotov et al., 2006, PMID 16635254); dopamine and serotonin systems (Eremin et al., 2005, PMID 16362768).
Selank: GABA-signalling gene expression (Volkova et al., 2016, PMID 26924987); enkephalin-degrading enzymes (Zozulya et al., 2001, PMID 11550013).
For more detail, read our full overviews of Semax and Selank, or see the Semax and Selank product pages.
Quality considerations for researchers
Results depend on the material used, so identity and purity data matter. Check that each batch comes with a certificate of analysis showing mass-spectrometry identity and HPLC purity, and that the batch number matches your vial. Store lyophilized material as described in our storage guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are Semax and Selank the same peptide?
No. They have different sequences and parent peptides, though both end in Pro-Gly-Pro.
Where were they developed?
Both at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow.
Are they FDA approved?
No. Neither is approved by the FDA for any use.
Research use only. OxygenLab products are supplied for in-vitro laboratory research and analytical use only. They are not for human or animal use and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See our Legal & Compliance policy.
Lab tool: Working out solution concentration? Try the free OxygenLab Peptide Calculator — enter vial mass and diluent volume to get mg/mL, µg/mL and molarity.
