Comparison
AOD-9604 vs. Semax
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Research other
CAS no.
221231-10-3
80714-61-0
Molecular weight
1815.09 g/mol
813.92 g/mol
Half-life
0.4 h
0.3 h
Sequence
Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-PheMet-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-ProMechanism of action
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 corresponds to the C-terminal fragment 176-191 of human growth hormone with an additional N-terminal tyrosine. In animal models, lipolytic effects without GH-typical adverse events (insulin resistance, IGF-1 rise) were reported. In humans, these preclinical findings did not translate into clinically relevant weight reduction in the four phase-2 obesity trials. The exact human mechanism of action is unclear; the GH receptor is not classically activated by the fragment.
Semax
Semax is a tetracosactide fragment analog without hormonal activity at MC2R. Proposed mechanisms include elevation of BDNF and NGF in hippocampus and striatum (in animal models), modulation of dopamine metabolism, and neuroprotective effects via anti-apoptotic pathways. A clear primary receptor is not established.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
3
4
of which in humans
2
2
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
1
1