Copper peptide GHK-Cu, a copper complex tripeptide derived from the human body, consists of glycine, histidine and lysine. It was isolated and studied by humans as early as 1973. Since then, GHK-Cu has attracted the attention of scientists, particularly for its potential in wound healing and anti-aging. Research shows that with age, the level of GHK-Cu in plasma will decrease, and this decrease is closely related to skin problems in the aging process.
According to research, GHK-Cu not only promotes wound healing, but also attracts immune cells and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
The discovery of GHK-Cu can be traced back to 1973, when scientist Loren Pickart successfully isolated this copper peptide from human plasma albumin. As the research progressed, scientists gradually realized that tissue extracted from the livers of older patients was rich in fibrinogen, which was less common in younger groups. This has led researchers to explore the importance of GHK peptides in biological functions and their potential to reverse the aging process.
In the late 1980s, GHK-Cu was considered a promising wound healing agent, with experimental studies showing that GHK-Cu could stimulate collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts at micromolar to nanomolar concentrations. , this discovery is of great significance for advancing trauma medicine.
In animal experiments, GHK-Cu showed a significant promotion effect on skin wound healing in rabbits, not only accelerating wound contraction, but also improving capillary formation.
A series of animal experiments confirmed the significant activity of GHK-Cu in promoting wound healing. The study found that whether in experiments on mice, antelopes or pigs, GHK-Cu applied to one part can promote the healing of other parts, showing an unexpected systemic healing effect.
With the successful application of GHK-Cu in wound healing research, this ingredient has been gradually introduced into cosmetics. As an anti-aging and repairing ingredient, GHK-Cu can effectively reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. Multiple clinical trials have confirmed its effectiveness in the field of anti-aging.
The biochemical properties of GHK-Cu have made it the focus of the medical and beauty communities. This small molecule can quickly shuttle through the extracellular space and easily access cell receptors. Research shows that GHK-Cu regulates the environment and function of cells through interaction with copper.
Importantly, research has found that GHK-Cu can introduce non-toxic copper into cells through binding to copper ions, thereby participating in a variety of biological processes.
Copper is a crucial element for all eukaryotic organisms, and its influence extends to various physiological processes from microorganisms to humans. Various enzymes rely on copper redox reactions to catalyze key biochemical reactions, such as cellular respiration, antioxidant defense, etc.
The discovery and application of GHK-Cu not only changed our understanding of aging, but also redefined expectations for skin repair in the medical and cosmetic fields. As research continues to deepen, we can't help but think about how many discoveries like GHK-Cu will bring new hopes and possibilities in the future?