GHK, a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine, has been extensively researched for its pivotal role in tissue remodeling, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory pathways, and cellular regeneration. This peptide functions both independently and in its copper-bound form (GHK-Cu), influencing numerous genes related to the body’s stress response, injury recovery, and cellular maintenance.
What is GHK?
GHK (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine) is naturally present in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations that decline significantly with age—200 ng/mL at age 20 versus just 80 ng/mL by age 60. This reduction is closely linked to the body’s declining regenerative and healing capabilities. Research has associated GHK with benefits in wound healing, infection control, hair growth, skin health, cognitive performance, and even cancer- and anti-aging-related pathways.
Difference Between GHK and GHK-Cu
While both forms impact gene expression related to stress, repair, and inflammation, GHK-Cu is the copper-complexed form essential for a myriad of biochemical reactions, including antioxidant defense, blood vessel formation, neurotransmission, and tissue repair. Copper acts as a critical cofactor for enzymes governing respiration, detoxification, blood clotting, and iron metabolism, magnifying GHK’s beneficial effects in biological systems.
Research Highlights
Suppression of Fibrinogen Synthesis: GHK markedly decreases the gene expression of the beta chain of fibrinogen and the inflammatory cytokine IL-6, potentially reducing overall inflammation and clot formation.
Stimulation of UPS Genes: By activating genes in the Ubiquitin/Proteasome System, GHK aids in the clearance of damaged proteins, a process linked to healthier aging.
DNA Repair Stimulation: GHK upregulates numerous DNA repair genes, helping mitigate accumulated DNA damage—a hallmark of aging and cellular dysfunction.
Antioxidant Activity: GHK promotes expression of antioxidant genes while suppressing pro-oxidant ones, contributing to cellular resilience against oxidative stress and associated degenerative conditions.
Metabolic Modulation: Through regulation of insulin and IGF-1 gene expression, GHK may support longevity by suppressing pathways implicated in accelerated aging.
Promotion of Tissue Regeneration: GHK stimulates TGF-beta and related family members, promoting repair in skin, hair follicles, bone, and internal linings, both directly and by resetting diseased gene expression.
Cancer-Controlling Genes: Research indicates GHK has potential to positively modulate genes involved in cancer suppression and metastasis control by reversing gene signatures associated with aggressive tumors.
Conclusion
GHK offers a spectrum of research-supported effects ranging from enhanced wound healing and tissue regeneration to antioxidant defense, immune modulation, and gene regulation targeting inflammation and aging. It is characterized by minimal side effects, efficient subcutaneous bioavailability in animal models, and strong safety data in research contexts. Notably, its dosages in animal studies do not directly scale to humans, and all activity remains investigational.
Product Details
Content: 50mg of pure GHK tripeptide per vial
Sequence: Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine (GHK)
Purity: High-purity research grade, verified by HPLC
Origin: Provided exclusively for laboratory research and in vitro use
Compliance Disclaimer
All products offered by PeptidesAlpha, including GHK Basic 50mg, are strictly for in-vitro research—any use involving introduction into the human or animal body is forbidden and unlawful. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and is only for use by qualified researchers in controlled laboratory environments.
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