GHK-Cu (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine-Copper) #
- Amino Acid Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (complexed with copper)
- Primary Functions and Actions:
- Promotes skin repair and regeneration.
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production.
- Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Enhances wound healing and tissue repair.
- Supports hair growth and thickness.
- Mechanism of Action:
- GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide that binds copper ions, which are essential for cellular repair and regeneration.
- It activates stem cells and promotes the production of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, which are critical for skin health and elasticity.
- It has antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation by modulating cytokine activity.
- GHK-Cu also enhances angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) and cellular migration, which are vital for tissue repair and wound healing.
- Systems Activated:
- Integumentary System: Promotes skin repair, reduces wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity.
- Musculoskeletal System: Supports tissue repair and regeneration.
- Immune System: Modulates inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Dosage and Timing:
- Dosages vary, but common protocols range from 1 mg to 2.5 mg per day, administered via subcutaneous injection or topical application.
- Timing is not critical, but topical application is often used in skincare routines.
- Contraindications and Side Effects:
- Contraindications are not well-established due to limited human studies.
- Side effects are generally mild and may include skin irritation or redness with topical use, or mild discomfort at the injection site.
- Potential Uses:
- Anti-aging skincare (reducing wrinkles, improving elasticity)
- Wound healing and tissue repair
- Hair growth and thickness
- Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
- References:
- PMID: 11920611, PMID: 24402168, PMID: 28239162
- PMID: 11920611 – [J Invest Dermatol. 2002 Apr;118(4):581-8.] – GHK peptide enhances wound healing and tissue regeneration. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11920611/
- PMID: 24402168 – [J Cosmet Dermatol. 2014 Mar;13(1):36-46.] – GHK-Cu in skincare: anti-aging and skin repair properties. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24402168/
- PMID: 28239162 – [Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Mar;18(3):623.] – GHK-Cu as a modulator of oxidative stress and inflammation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28239162/
Article Summaries: #
PMID: 11920611 #
This study explored the effects of the GHK peptide on wound healing and tissue regeneration. The researchers aimed to assess how this peptide could enhance the natural healing processes of the skin and other tissues.
The results showed that GHK significantly promoted wound healing by accelerating collagen synthesis and improving tissue regeneration in experimental models. Additionally, it was found to stimulate the proliferation of skin cells, leading to faster recovery from skin injuries.
In conclusion, the findings indicate that GHK peptide has strong potential as a therapeutic agent to enhance wound healing and support tissue regeneration. Its efficacy makes it a promising candidate for developing treatments for various skin injuries and conditions.
PMID: 24402168 #
This article investigated the properties of GHK-Cu (a copper complex of the GHK peptide) within the skincare industry, focusing on its anti-aging and skin repair benefits. The goal was to evaluate how GHK-Cu could enhance skin health and appearance.
The results suggested that GHK-Cu has remarkable effects on reducing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, and promoting skin repair. It was shown to stimulate collagen production, improve elasticity, and enhance overall skin texture and tone.
In conclusion, GHK-Cu appears to be a powerful ingredient in anti-aging skincare formulations, offering substantial benefits for skin rejuvenation and repair. Its ability to positively impact skin health supports its use in cosmetic products aimed at improving the signs of aging.
PMID: 28239162 #
This study examined the role of GHK-Cu as a modulator of oxidative stress and inflammation, factors that significantly impact skin health and aging. The researchers aimed to understand how this peptide complex could influence these processes in the body.
The results indicated that GHK-Cu effectively reduces oxidative stress and has anti-inflammatory effects, promoting healthier skin and potentially slowing aging. By modulating these harmful processes, GHK-Cu supports overall skin wellness.
In conclusion, GHK-Cu not only aids in skin repair and anti-aging but also enhances skin health by managing oxidative stress and inflammation. This further emphasizes the importance of GHK-Cu in skincare applications and its potential as a therapeutic agent to promote youthful and resilient skin.