Copper-Free GHK Peptide Shows Promise for Rejuvenating Aging Skin Stem Cells.

Skin aging is a complex biological process characterized by a progressive decline in the regenerative capacity of the epidermis and dermis, largely due to the reduced function and number of skin stem cells. These crucial cells are responsible for continuous skin renewal and repair. The tripeptide GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) has long been recognized for its remarkable skin-rejuvenating properties, including promoting collagen synthesis and wound healing, often studied in its copper-bound form, GHK-Cu. However, despite the known benefits of GHK, the specific effects of the copper-free form of GHK on the intrinsic proliferation, differentiation, and overall regenerative potential of human skin stem cells, particularly in the context of combating age-related decline, remained a significant knowledge gap this study aimed to address.