What is GHK?
GHK, or Gly-His-Lys, is a peptide known for its powerful effects in promoting skin health. Dr. Loren Pickart discovered it in the 1970s. GHK-Cu, a form of the peptide bonded with copper, is particularly renowned for its anti-aging properties.
GHK can:
- Promote collagen and elastin production.
- Has a positive effect on wrinkles and fine lines.
- Improve skin elasticity and firmness.
- Accelerate wound healing.
- Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Due to these benefits, GHK is commonly used in skincare products, especially anti-aging products. It's important to note that, like all skincare ingredients, results can vary from person to person.
What Is the Difference Between GHK and GHK-Cu?
GHK (Gly-His-Lys) and GHK-Cu are both peptides that have been recognized for their potential in skin health and anti-aging. The main difference between the two lies in the presence of copper.
GHK is a tripeptide consisting of three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine. It has several biological actions beneficial to skin health, including promoting collagen production, improving skin elasticity, accelerating wound healing, and providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
GHK-Cu, on the other hand, is GHK that is bonded with copper. Copper is an essential trace element vital for the health and function of the human body, including the skin. When GHK is combined with copper to form GHK-Cu, it can enhance the peptide's biological actions. GHK-Cu, even in minimal amounts, has been identified as a potent magnet for capillary cells responsible for the building of new blood vessels. Additionally, it serves as an important stimulant for the movement of macrophages, a category of white blood cells that are vital for immune responses.
GHK Research
Suppresses fibrinogen synthesis
Fibrinogen is a protein in the blood plasma that is essential for the formation of blood clots. Overproduction of fibrinogen can lead to excessive clotting or thrombosis. GHK has been found to suppress fibrinogen production, potentially reducing the risk of thrombotic conditions.
Activates UPS (Ubiquitin Proteasome System)
The UPS is a system within cells responsible for degrading unneeded or damaged proteins. Activation of the UPS by GHK could help maintain cellular health and function by ensuring the timely removal of such proteins.
Activates DNA repair genes
DNA repair is crucial for maintaining the integrity of genetic information within the cells. GHK has been shown to activate genes associated with DNA repair, potentially reducing the risk of mutations that can lead to diseases like cancer.
Acts as an antioxidant
Oxidative stress, caused by free radicals, can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer. GHK has antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Suppresses insulin and insulin-like genes
Overexpression of insulin and insulin-like genes can contribute to conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. GHK's ability to suppress these genes could potentially have therapeutic benefits in these conditions.
Repairs tissue via TGF-beta superfamily
The Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily of proteins plays important roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and other functions. GHK has been found to stimulate the activity of this family, which can promote tissue repair and wound healing.
Cancer controlling genes
GHK has been shown to upregulate or downregulate the expression of certain genes that control the development and progression of cancer. This could potentially make GHK a valuable tool in cancer prevention or treatment.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073405/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4180391/
https://www.nature.com/articles/288715a0
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18644225/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073405/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6315945/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328388736_Prediction_of_Target_Genes_and_Pathways_Associated_With_Cetuximab_Insensitivity_in_Colorectal_Cancer