The Semax sequence (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is based on the core structure of ACTH but has been modified with a Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminus to significantly enhance its metabolic stability and duration of action. Unlike the parent hormone, Semax lacks hormonal activity, allowing researchers to study its direct effects on the central nervous system without triggering systemic corticosteroid responses. Its primary mechanism involves increasing the expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which are essential for neuronal survival and plasticity.