Repair of skin aging processes

The use of GHK-Cu resulted in an increase in skin density and thickness, with a concomitant reduction in skin sagging. A reduction in fine lines and wrinkles was observed. There was increased collagen production in 70% of the treated women, improved skin hydration, significant smoothing of the skin through stimulation of collagen synthesis, increased skin elasticity and significant improvement in skin contrast and increased collagen I production.

Wound healing activity by GHK-CU

The use of GHK-CU, improves wound contraction and granulation tissue formation, as well as increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes, stimulates blood vessel growth and healing of ischemic open wounds. Wounds, moreover, under the influence of the peptide showed faster healing, a reduction in metalloproteinases 2 and 9 and TNF-β, which is a major inflammatory cytokine.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

The action of GHK-Cu results in the inactivation of damaging free radicals that are by-products of lipid peroxidation, such as 4-hydroxynoneal, acrolein, malondialdehyde and glyoxal, protecting cultured skin keratinocytes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. GHK-Cu reduced the release of iron from ferritin by 87%. Ferritin in blood plasma can store up to 4,500 iron atoms per protein molecule, which is a well-known catalyst for lipid peroxidation - a chain reaction that produces an abundance of free radicals, leading to damage to DNA, proteins and cell membranes. Abnormalities in iron metabolism contribute to many pathological conditions, including brain damage and neuronal death in various neurological conditions. Iron released from ferritin can form an Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) complex and start a chain reaction of lipid oxidation.

Promoting nerve regrowth

GHK-Cu increased the production of nerve growth factor and neurotrophins NT-3 and NT-4, accelerated the regeneration of nerve fibers from nerve segments placed in the collagen tube, and increased the number of axons and proliferation of Schwann cells.

Blocking cortisol's effects

Cortisol inhibits bone formation processes and interferes with collagen synthesis, which also negatively affects the state of connective tissue. Cortisol has immunosuppressive effects, and these are mainly due to modulation of the ratio of the Th1 and Th2 cytokine arms of the immune system, decreasing Th1 activity and increasing Th2. Topical steroids, such as cortisone, are often prescribed to treat skin inflammation, and can inhibit wound healing, as well as cause skin thinning and other defects. GHK-Cu has a similar effect.