Comparison
Kisspeptin-10 vs. Semax
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
374675-21-5
80714-61-0
Molecular weight
1302.44 g/mol
813.92 g/mol
Half-life
0.07 h
0.3 h
Sequence
H-Tyr-Asn-Trp-Asn-Ser-Phe-Gly-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-ProMechanism of action
Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin-10 comprises the ten C-terminal amino acids sufficient for binding to the KISS1R receptor (also GPR54). KISS1R is a G-protein-coupled receptor expressed predominantly on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Activation signals through the Gq/11-phospholipase C pathway to release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn drives the pituitary to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Kisspeptin signaling is regarded as an indispensable trigger of puberty; inactivating mutations in KISS1R are associated with absent puberty (idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism). Beyond the reproductive axis, KISS1R expression is described in limbic brain regions, discussed as a possible mechanism for the effects on sexual and emotional processing observed in imaging studies.
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
4
4
of which in humans
4
2
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Kisspeptin-10 and Semax?
- Kisspeptin-10 is classified as "Research other", while Semax is classified as "Research other". Kisspeptin-10: Kisspeptin-10 is the shortest bioactive fragment (10 amino acids) of the endogenous neuropeptide kisspeptin, encoded by the KISS1 gene. It acts as an agonist at the KISS1R (GPR54) receptor and stimulates hypothalamic GnRH neurons, driving release of LH and FSH. Kisspeptin is a master switch of puberty and reproduction and is studied in humans, notably by the group of Waljit Dhillo (Imperial College London), in reproductive disorders and in sexual and emotional brain processing. It is not an approved drug. Semax: Synthetic heptapeptide derived from the N-terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10). Approved in Russia for ischaemic stroke, cognitive function and ADHD in children. Western phase-3 trials absent. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Kisspeptin-10 or Semax?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Kisspeptin-10 and "Human trial" for Semax. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Kisspeptin-10 and Semax in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Kisspeptin-10 — Unapproved, Semax — Unapproved. United States: Kisspeptin-10 — Research only, Semax — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.