The Human Tri-Peptide GHK and Tissue Remodeling

The document from 2008 examines the human tri-peptide GHK, particularly its copper complex GHK-Cu, and its significant role in tissue remodeling and healing. GHK-Cu is shown to attract repair cells, reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, and promote fibroblast and keratinocyte proliferation, nerve outgrowth, angiogenesis, and hair follicle size. It has been used in various wound healing models and human clinical trials, demonstrating improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, and appearance, as well as aiding in hair transplant success. GHK-Cu has also been found to have gastrointestinal repair properties, accelerate bone healing, and protect against liver damage. The peptide's multiple repair actions may stem from an ancient signaling system, and its physiological role could be to maintain tissue health by suppressing inflammation and stimulating repair. GHK-Cu is noted for its low toxicity and potential therapeutic benefits, including the possibility of developing copper-based treatments for inflammatory diseases associated with aging.