Research has suggested that Syn-coll may function similarly to Thrombospondin-1 by stimulating the breakdown of collagen caused by transforming growth factors. A naturally occurring peptide called TSP-1 is considered to promote TGF- activity. Syn-coll peptide is suggested to host the same properties as TSP-1 in increasing Type I and III collagen levels in dermal (skin) fibroblasts. According to experimental results, Syn-coll may raise type I and III collagen levels by 2-3 folds above normal levels(2). Varga et al. further suggest, ‘Our results indicate that TGF beta causes a marked enhancement of the production of types I and III collagens and fibronectin by cultured normal … dermal fibroblasts. The rate of collagen production by fibroblasts exposed to TGF beta was 2-3-fold greater than that of control cells. These effects were associated with a 2-3-fold increase in the steady-state amounts of types I and III collagen mRNAs and a 5-8-fold increase in the amounts of fibronectin mRNAs as determined by dot-blot hybridization with specific cloned cDNA probes. In addition, the increased production of collagen and fibronectin and the increased amounts of their corresponding mRNAs remained elevated for at least 72 h after the removal of TGF beta. These findings suggest that TGF beta may play a major role in the normal regulation of extracellular matrix production in vivo and may contribute to the development of pathological states of fibrosis’ (2) TSP-1 is a protein found in the extracellular matrix (ECM), and it is considered to be found alongside collagen and elastin.

Research regarding Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, like TSP-1, suggests that this peptide may improve wound healing (3). It appears to participate in the development of skin structures. The Syn-coll peptide may inhibits matrix metalloproteinase I and III activity (MMP1 and MMP3). Enzymes that degrade collagen are known as matrix metalloproteinases. These enzymes may be beneficial because they recycle collagen, but appear uncontrollably increased to abnormal levels in conditions such as inflammation. As a result, premature skin damage, lines, and creasing along the skin structure may appear (3).

Syn-coll may potentially support the elimination of toxins and reduce the development and depth of wrinkles on the skin surface. Syn-coll appears to interact with the skin, keeping toxins at bay. This procedure may shield from free radicals.

By possibly inhibiting MMP1 and MMP3 activity, Syn-coll peptide may potentially help to prevent collagen breakdown. These hypotheses suggest that Syn-coll peptide may promote the formation of Type I and Type III collagen while inhibiting collagen breakdown by the enzymes, as mentioned earlier.

Syn-coll, a synthetic peptide component, has been hypothesized to have two primary effects. It appears to increase collagen production by replicating the activation of latent transforming growth factor beta, TGF (Tissue Growth Factor), considered a critical component in collagen synthesis. It appears to protect collagen from breakdown by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Both activities may work together to keep the skin’s structural integrity intact. Compared to a placebo, Syn-coll peptide may be up to 3.5 times more impactful in wrinkle depth reduction. According to the researchers, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 may be 60% more effective than Palmitoyl Pentapeptide (5).

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Errante F, Ledwoń P, Latajka R, Rovero P, Papini AM. Cosmeceutical Peptides in the Framework of Sustainable Wellness Economy. Front Chem. 2020 Oct 30;8:572923. doi: 10.3389/fchem.2020.572923.
2. Varga J, Rosenbloom J, Jimenez SA. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) causes a persistent increase in steady-state amounts of type I and type III collagen and fibronectin mRNAs in normal human dermal fibroblasts. Biochem J. 1987 Nov 1;247(3):597-604
3. Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF. Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2021 Jul 21;14(8):702. doi: 10.3390/ph14080702.
4. Fadilah NIM, Rahman MBA, Yusof LM, Mustapha NM, Ahmad H. The Therapeutic Effect and In Vivo Assessment of Palmitoyl-GDPH on the Wound Healing Process. Pharmaceutics. 2021 Feb 1;13(2):193. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020193.
5. Bucay VW, Day D. Adjunctive skin care of the brow and periorbital region. Clin Plast Surg. 2013 Jan;40(1):225-36. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2012.09.003
6. Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF. Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2021 Jul 21;14(8):702. doi: 10.3390/ph14080702

Potential Function of Pal-GHK Peptide

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 may induce the production of fibroblasts at a rapid rate to replenish and regenerate any lost elastin. The GHK-end is connected to the Pal-end, the fatty acid (Palmitoyl) end of Pal-GHK acts as an intermediary. This transport complex appears to improve skin cell penetration.

Pal-GHK peptide appears to activate genes that may change and reset cells. This may be accomplished by attaching Palmitoyl to the peptide sequence, GHK, which may make it more effective for DNA repair genes and increases the expression of the 14 genes that modulate antioxidant production. Following the genetic changes, the action of cell aging may be reduced, as are radicals and toxic agents that cause the development of certain diseases.

Pal-GHK is a modified form of the extracellular matrix-derived peptide GHK that may potentially permeate the stratum corneum and attain the epidermal and dermal skin layers.

Pal-GHK (0.5 M) may increaase collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts. It may reduce collagen degradation in skin samples exposed to UVA light when examined at a concentration of 6 ppm.

Scientists suggest that combined with the zwitterionic surfactant C12 dodecyl dimethylamine oxide they may investigate the composite’s identity into aggregates, ribbons, and nanobelts. Pal-GHK peptide as an internal standard helped quantify pal-KTTKS in anti-wrinkle creams using LC-MS/MS.

Scientists believe Pal-GHK peptide may activate age-related DNA repair and certain genes. According to new research, the peptide may potentially influence follicle regeneration.

Pal-GHK Peptide and Wrinkles

Pal-GHK may protect the extracellular matrix from certain cell aging consequences, according to scientific data^[4]. Shagen et al report that “In a study … leading to statistically significant reductions in wrinkle length, depth and skin roughness. Another study applied both vehicle and palmitoyl tripeptide-1 to the skin … documenting a small but statistically significant increase in skin thickness (~4%, compared to the vehicle alone)The peptide accomplishes this by increasing the production of elastin and collagen.”

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 may replenish the skin’s extracellular matrix, reducing wrinkles, smoother skin, and less uneven skin. At the same time, it may protect collagen from degradation caused by Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Pal-GHK peptide may be examined solely or combinatorally with Palmitoyl tetrapeptide – Z.

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Ferreira, M. S., Magalhães, M. C., Sousa-Lobo, J. M., & Almeida, I. F. (2020). Trending anti-aging peptides. Cosmetics, 7(4), 91.
2. Gorouhi, F., & Maibach, H. I. (2009). Role of peptides in preventing or treating aged skin. International journal of cosmetic science, 31(5), 327-345.
3. Park, S. I., An, G. M., Kim, M. G., Heo, S. H., & Shin, M. S. (2020). Enhancement of Skin Permeation of Anti-wrinkle Peptide GHKs Using Cell Penetrating Peptides. Korean Chemical Engineering Research, 58(1), 29-35. https://doi.org/10.9713/KCER.2020.58.1.29

According to scientific data, TB-500 is a synthetic peptide with wound healing and anti-inflammatory potential.^[2] This peptide differs from others in that it appears to promote keratinocyte and endothelial migration. It has a low molecular weight and does not appear to bind to the extracellular matrix, implying that it may potentially travel long distances through tissues. The most important mechanism of action of the TB-500 peptide is its potential to modulate actin activity.

TB-500 Peptide Research

TB-500 peptide may be concentrated at injury sites, where it may improve wound healing and repair in the brain, spinal cord, skin, heart, bones, and organs.^[4]

When released from platelets, TB-500 peptide may play a potential cellular role in immune regulation and inflammation. As a result, TB-500 peptide may increase B cells, which regulate antibody activation. It may increase Actin levels to promote tissue repair after injury and potentially stimulate T cell synthesis to improve immune system function.^[5]

TB-500 and Blood Clots: TB-500 peptide may be a vital ancillary in mitigating blood clots and might regulate the formation of blood vessels.

TB-500 and Soft Tissue Damage: The potential of TB-500 peptide to promote angiogenesis and reduce inflammation may result in muscle, ligament, and tendon recovery.

TB-500 and Muscular Function: TB-500 peptide may potentially increase the rate of muscle repair and growth rate, including regulating muscle spasms.

TB-500 and Neurological and Cardiovascular Damage: TB-500 peptide may potentially promote angiogenesis, including neuron formation and better brain axonal density.

TB-500 and Matrix Metalloproteinase Expression in Tissue Repair: Wound healing impairment is common in diabetic cases of immobility. According to research, TB-500 peptide may potentially improve dermal wound repair in rats, dB/dB diabetic mice, and aged mice.^[6] Philip et al. concluded “that thymosin β4 is active for wound repair in models of impaired healing and may have efficacy in chronic wounds.” In normal rats and mice, the peptide appears to potentially promote corneal repair. TB-500 may regulate matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression in wound repair cells. RT-PCR analysis of whole excised mouse dermal wounds on days 1, 2, and 3 after injury suggested that TB-500 peptide increased the expression of several metalloproteinases, including MMP-2 and -9, by several folds on days two after wounding. The metalloproteinases secreted by activated monocytes in response to exogenous TB-500 in the wound were also studied. They suggested that the peptide increased MMP-1 and MMP-9 levels.

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Ho, E. N., Kwok, W. H., Lau, M. Y., Wong, A. S., Wan, T. S., Lam, K. K., Schiff, P. J., & Stewart, B. D. (2012). Doping control analysis of TB-500 peptide, a synthetic version of an active region of thymosin β₄, in equine urine and plasma by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Journal of chromatography. A, 1265, 57–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chroma.2012.09.043
2. Grant, D. S., Rose, W., Yaen, C., Goldstein, A., Martinez, J., & Kleinman, H. (1999). Thymosin beta4 enhances endothelial cell differentiation and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis, 3(2), 125–135. https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1009041911493
3. Malinda, K. M., Sidhu, G. S., Mani, H., Banaudha, K., Maheshwari, R. K., Goldstein, A. L., & Kleinman, H. K. (1999). Thymosin beta4 accelerates wound healing. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 113(3), 364–368. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1523-1747.1999.00708.x
4. Goldstein, A. L., Hannappel, E., & Kleinman, H. K. (2005). Thymosin β4: actin-sequestering protein moonlights to repair injured tissues. Trends in molecular medicine, 11(9), 421-429.
5. Huff, T., Otto, A. M., Müller, C. S., Meier, M., & Hannappel, E. (2002). Thymosin β4 is released from human blood platelets and attached by factor XIIIa (transglutaminase) to fibrin and collagen. The FASEB journal, 16(7), 691-696.
6. Philp, D., Badamchian, M., Scheremeta, B., Nguyen, M., Goldstein, A. L., & Kleinman, H. K. (2003). Thymosin β4 and a synthetic peptide containing its actin‐binding domain promote dermal wound repair in db/db diabetic mice and in aged mice. Wound repair and regeneration, 11(1), 19-24.

PTD-DBM Peptide Overview

CXXC5 appears to act as a reversible modulator on the Wnt/-catenin nerve tract, which is involved in wound healing and hair regrowth. It is known as “the hair loss catalytic enzyme”. CXXC5 forms a bond with the Dvl protein, which may inhibit hair regeneration and follicle development. PTD-DBM has been hypothesized to prevent CXXC5 from binding to the disheveled protein. It may act as a negative modulator of the entire process.^[1] If PTD-DBM prevents CXXC5 from becoming a disheveled protein, the Wnt/-catenin pathway may be activated, inducing hair follicle regrowth and wound-induced hair follicle neogenesis. PTD-DBM is suggested to inhibit the activities of enzymes and hormones that shrink follicles, gradually restoring the strands at the stem cell level. PTD-DBM peptide may prevent follicle volume loss while stimulating the formation of new cavities for follicle growth.

PTD-DBM and Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic Alopecia is characterized by the regression of follicle loss in the vertex. It may progress and induce total follicle loss. The anagen, catagen, and telogen phase are the three stages of follicle growth. The anagen phase may be shortened due to androgen hypersecretion, specifically testosterone. It may induce follicle growth to thin and shed, and the anagen phase may last only a few months.

The most crucial cellular pathway that is considered to regulate follicle growth is the Wnt/-catenin pathway. Wnt proteins are released, which may bind to the LDL-related protein LRP, deactivating glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3). GSK-3 appears to inhibit -catenin’s actions in the hair follicle.

According to Professor Kang-Yell Choi’s research, CXXC-type zinc finger protein 5 (CXXC5) may be expressed aggressively in cases of Alopecia.^[3] CXXC5 appear to inhibit the Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway. CXXC5 may accomplish this by binding to the Dvl protein, hindering the growth and development of both new and existing follicles.

By inhibiting the actions of CXXC5 and Dvl protein, PTD-DBM may potentially reduce the prevalence of androgenetic alopecia, resulting in increased follicle growth and the anagen phase of the growth cycle. PTD-DBM potential actions may result in positive impact; when the peptide is in symbiosis with valproic acid, its potency has been suggested to increase.

PTD-DBM and Tissue Repair

The Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway is considered to be essential for wound healing and skin break fibrosis. The CXXC5 may regulate it via a negative feedback mechanism. The CXXC5 appears to bind to the Disheveled (Dvl) protein, inhibiting the Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway. Inhibiting CXXC5 activities in mice appears to promote wound healing by stimulating collagen and keratin synthesis, specifically skin wound healing.^[2] Furthermore, PTD-DBM has been suggested to inhibit the CXXC5-Dvl domain’s actions by preventing protein-to-protein interactions between CXXC5 and Dvl proteins. As a result, the Wnt/-catenin pathway may become more active, inducing collagen and keratin synthesis and increased dermal fibrosis.

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Lee, S. H., Seo, S. H., Lee, D. H., Pi, L. Q., Lee, W. S., & Choi, K. Y. (2017). Targeting of CXXC5 by a Competing Peptide Stimulates Hair Regrowth and Wound-Induced Hair Neogenesis. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 137(11), 2260–2269. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2017.04.038
2. Lee SH, Kim MY, Kim HY, Lee YM, Kim H, Nam KA, Roh MR, Min do S, Chung KY, Choi KY. The Dishevelled-binding protein CXXC5 negatively regulates cutaneous wound healing. J Exp Med. 2015 Jun 29;212(7):1061-80. doi: 10.1084/jem.20141601. Epub 2015 Jun 8. PMID: 26056233; PMCID: PMC4493411.
3. Ryu YC, Lee DH, Shim J, Park J, Kim YR, Choi S, Bak SS, Sung YK, Lee SH, Choi KY. KY19382, a novel activator of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, promotes hair regrowth and hair follicle neogenesis. Br J Pharmacol. 2021 Jun;178(12):2533-2546. doi: 10.1111/bph.15438. Epub 2021 May 5. PMID: 33751552; PMCID: PMC8251890.
4. Rahman M, Nguyen H. Valproic Acid. [Updated 2022 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559112/

Pegylation may reduce immune response to a foreign body. In this case, Pegylated MGF peptide may increase the compound’s half-life in blood by reducing kidney clearance. Because MGF has a short lifespan in blood, PEG MGF peptide is an existing compound. Although MGF has been suggested to survive more extended periods in muscle tissues, it is considered to have a short life span.

Research

Pegylated MGF and Skeletal Muscles

According to research in mouse models with a muscular injury, the Mechano Growth Factor may protect the myoblasts by reducing the expression of certain inflammatory hormones and decreasing oxidative stress.^[2] Research by Sun et al. suggests that MGF may regulate muscle inflammation and enhance macrophage and neutrophil recruitment to the injury site.^[3]

A study by an international group of endocrinology researchers suggested that MGF activates the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptors in the same way as IGF-1.^[4] Better energy homeostasis, enhanced lean body mass, and reduced cell aging may result from activating the IGF-1 receptor, suggesting that Pegylated MGF peptide may produce an action similar to to IGF-1. The product may be a net increase in lean body mass, increased fat metabolism, and activated muscle repair. Physical output in mice, according to research, may exhibit up to a 25% increase in mean muscle fiber size following MGF exposure.^[5]

Pegylated MGF and Bone

Pegylated MGF has shown promise in bone repair rate in rabbits by reportedly increasing osteoblast proliferation during the course of scientific study in a laboratory. Osteoprogenitor cells may stimulate and secrete bone matrix, and participate in bone mineralization (bone tissue formation).

Pegylated MGF and the Heart

Research findings from the University of Illinois, Department of Bioengineering suggest that MGF may ameliorate apoptosis by cardiac muscle cells following hypoxia.^[6] Pegylated MGF peptide may recruit cardiac stem cells to the injury site and might induce healing and regeneration following cardiac arrest.

Research has also suggested that localized MGF might improve cardiac function by reducing pathologic hypertrophy.^[7] Scientists suggested improved hemodynamics and low cardiac remodeling rates in remodeling mice compared to mice without MGF exposure. A study by Carpenter et al. suggested that MGF in the disease condition of acute myocardial infarction might induce cardiomyocyte injury reduction by approximately 35%.

Pegylated MGF peptide appears to promote osteogenic differentiation and the expression of MMP-1 and MMP-2 in periodontal ligament samples. These factors may enable the repair of ligaments attached end to end. They may proffer surrogate extractions and implants following damage.

Pegylated MGF and Neuroprotection

A study reviewed by Alexander Walker, Editorial Assistant at BioMed Central, explored the long-term action of enhanced MGF levels in the central nervous system and brain.^[8] The study suggested that high MGF levels may reduce the effects of age-dependent neuron degeneration. This study suggested that cognitive functions maintained peak performance over a prolonged duration. According to the editorial assistant, “MGF potency [may be] age-dependent”.

Mice models of ALS exposed to MGF exhibited better muscle weakness and decrease the loss of motor neurons. Dłużniewska et al. suggest that MGF expression may naturally take place in the brain following hypoxic injury and may be over-expressed in regions of the brain where neuron regeneration is highest.^[9] Exogenous MGF might limit the impact of numerous neurological diseases by preventing neuron death in the spinal cord and brain despite the ongoing disease condition.

Pegylated MGF and Cartilage

Research suggests that MGF may improve chondrocyte functions—cells that regulate cartilage deposition. Mice model research suggest that MGF may increase chondrocyte migration from bone to cartilage where they impact. Research in this area is ongoing.

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Kandalla PK, Goldspink G, Butler-Browne G, Mouly V. Mechano Growth Factor E peptide (MGF-E), derived from an isoform of IGF-1, activates human muscle progenitor cells and induces an increase in their fusion potential at different ages. Mech Ageing Dev. 2011 Apr;132(4):154-62. doi: 10.1016/j.mad.2011.02.007. Epub 2011 Feb 25. PMID: 21354439.
2. Zabłocka B, Goldspink PH, Goldspink G, Górecki DC. Mechano-Growth Factor: an important cog or a loose screw in the repair machinery? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2012 Nov 1;3:131. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00131. PMID: 23125840; PMCID: PMC3485521.
3. Sun KT, Cheung KK, Au SWN, Yeung SS, Yeung EW. Overexpression of Mechano-Growth Factor Modulates Inflammatory Cytokine Expression and Macrophage Resolution in Skeletal Muscle Injury. Front Physiol. 2018 Jul 26;9:999. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00999. PMID: 30140235; PMCID: PMC6094977.
4. Janssen JA, Hofland LJ, Strasburger CJ, van den Dungen ES, Thevis M. Potency of Full-Length MGF to Induce Maximal Activation of the IGF-I R Is Similar to Recombinant Human IGF-I at High Equimolar Concentrations. PLoS One. 2016 Mar 18;11(3):e0150453. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150453. PMID: 26991004; PMCID: PMC4798685.
5. Goldspink G. Research on mechano growth factor: its potential for optimising physical training as well as misuse in doping. Br J Sports Med. 2005 Nov;39(11):787-8; discussion 787-8. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2004.015826. PMID: 16244184; PMCID: PMC1725070.
6. Carpenter V, Matthews K, Devlin G, Stuart S, Jensen J, Conaglen J, Jeanplong F, Goldspink P, Yang SY, Goldspink G, Bass J, McMahon C. Mechano-growth factor reduces loss of cardiac function in acute myocardial infarction. Heart Lung Circ. 2008 Feb;17(1):33-9. doi: 10.1016/j.hlc.2007.04.013. Epub 2007 Jun 19. PMID: 17581790.
7. Peña JR, Pinney JR, Ayala P, Desai TA, Goldspink PH. Localized delivery of mechano-growth factor E-domain peptide via polymeric microstructures improves cardiac function following myocardial infarction. Biomaterials. 2015 Apr;46:26-34. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.12.050. Epub 2015 Jan 16. PMID: 25678113; PMCID: PMC4328136.
8. Tang JJ, Podratz JL, Lange M, Scrable HJ, Jang MH, Windebank AJ. Mechano growth factor, a splice variant of IGF-1, promotes neurogenesis in the aging mouse brain. Mol Brain. 2017 Jul 7;10(1):23. doi: 10.1186/s13041-017-0304-0. PMID: 28683812; PMCID: PMC5501366.
9. Dluzniewska J, Sarnowska A, Beresewicz M, Johnson I, Srai SK, Ramesh B, Goldspink G, Górecki DC, Zabłocka B. A strong neuroprotective effect of the autonomous C-terminal peptide of IGF-1 Ec (MGF) in brain ischemia. FASEB J. 2005 Nov;19(13):1896-8. doi: 10.1096/fj.05-3786fje. Epub 2005 Sep 6. PMID: 16144956.

The Distinctions Between GHK-Cu and GHK Basic

GHK and GHK-cu may potentially influence genes responsible for stress response and tissue remodeling. Collagen molecules and the SPARC protein house the GHK sequence; injuries caused by protein breakdown may cause GHK to be released. Copper is considered to be an essential molecule. It is a transitional element required by all eukaryotic organisms, including microbes. In its reduced Cu (I) form, copper may be an essential co-factor in many biochemical reactions involving electron transfer. Copper oxidation is considered necessary for robust enzyme functions such as antioxidant defense, blood clotting, cellular respiration, connective tissue formation, and detoxification. Furthermore, copper is deemed essential for neurotransmission, embryonic development, iron metabolism, oxygenation, and most biological processes.

GHK Basic Peptide and DNA

Repair of DNA genes occurs primarily in young cells, however DNA damage accumulates. Rejuvenating the actions of DNA repair genes may help to slow cell aging and death.

GHK Basic Peptide and Fibrinogen Synthesis

Fibrinogen consists of alpha, beta, and gamma polypeptide chains. The beta chain gene of fibrinogen is considered to be highly suppressed. In the absence of sufficient fibrinogen, fibrinogen may halt because equal amounts of the three polypeptide chains may sufficiently produce fibrinogen. Furthermore, through its interaction with fibrinogen genes, GHK might inhibit fibrinogen synthesis by suppressing the production of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), the primary regulator of fibrinogen production.^[2] GHK may inhibit IL-6 secretion in skin fibroblasts and IL-6 gene expression in SZ95 sebocytes in cell culture systems. GHK’s potential on the fibrinogen gene and IL-6 secretion has been suggested to wholly suppress fibrinogen synthesis.

GHK Basic and Ubiquitin/Proteasome System (UPS)

GHK might activate the ubiquitin and proteasome system (UPS), which may remove damaged proteins. The activation and stimulation of the UPS may mitigate the cell aging and death. GHK may stimulate the gene expression of 41 UPS genes while suppressing the face of one UPS gene.

The Antioxidant Effect

GHK basic peptide appears to function as an antioxidant by activating 14 antioxidant genes while suppressing two pro-oxidant genes. GHK may potentially reduce free radicals and toxic end products of lipid peroxidation.

GHK Basic Peptide and Tissue Repair

GHK might repair tissue damage, making it the peptide’s most studied function. According to research, GHK activities on tissue repair may be seen in follicles, skin, GI tract, and the lining of the intestine. GHK basic peptide, according to Campbell et al., may reset the gene expression of fibroblasts from research models of COPD into the category of tissue repair by the TGF beta superfamily.^[3] According to Campbell et al., GHK appears to directly stimulate TGF beta and other members of the TGF family that may activate the repair process.

GHK Basic Peptide and Cancer

Cancer suppression may require DNA repair genes, caspases, and growth regulatory genes. In 2010, Hong et al. suggested 54 genes associated with aggressive, metastatic colon cancer.^[4] The results suggested that two skin remodeling and wound healing molecules, GHK and securinine, may potentially significantly change the gene expressions and may have a impact in cases of metastasis.

GHK Basic Peptide and Insulin

Scientists view the insulin family as a negative controller of cell longevity; abnormally high insulin levels and insulin-like proteins may reduce cell lifespan. GHK appears to activate three insulin genes and suppress six others in the system. Furthermore, many organisms’ insulin/IGF-1 receptor pathway may contribute to cell aging. Studies suggest that mutations that reduce insulin/IGF-1 signaling may slow the degenerative cell aging process as reportedly observed in certain mice models.

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Dou Y, Lee A, Zhu L, Morton J, Ladiges W. The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide. Aging Pathobiol Ther. 2020 Mar 27;2(1):58-61. doi: 10.31491/apt.2020.03.014. PMID: 35083444; PMCID: PMC8789089.
2. Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Jul 7;19(7):1987. doi: 10.3390/ijms19071987. PMID: 29986520; PMCID: PMC6073405.
3. Campbell JD, McDonough JE, Zeskind JE, Hackett TL, Pechkovsky DV, Brandsma CA, Suzuki M, Gosselink JV, Liu G, Alekseyev YO, Xiao J, Zhang X, Hayashi S, Cooper JD, Timens W, Postma DS, Knight DA, Lenburg ME, Hogg JC, Spira A. A gene expression signature of emphysema-related lung destruction and its reversal by the tripeptide GHK. Genome Med. 2012 Aug 31;4(8):67. doi: 10.1186/gm367. PMID: 22937864; PMCID: PMC4064320.
4. Hong Y, Downey T, Eu KW, Koh PK, Cheah PY. A ‘metastasis-prone’ signature for early-stage mismatch-repair proficient sporadic colorectal cancer patients and its implications for possible therapeutics. Clin Exp Metastasis. 2010 Feb;27(2):83-90. doi: 10.1007/s10585-010-9305-4. Epub 2010 Feb 9. PMID: 20143136.