In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds
Maquart FX, Bellon G, Chaqour B, et al. (1993). Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Summary
The animal study behind the collagen claims made for this peptide. Wire mesh chambers were implanted under the skin of rats and injected repeatedly with either GHK-Cu at various concentrations or saline. The contents were then analysed for dry weight, total protein, collagen, DNA, elastin, glycosaminoglycans and specific messenger RNAs. The authors report that the copper complex stimulated accumulation of connective tissue, supporting laboratory findings that had suggested it could activate wound repair. A rat study from 1993; it is the primary source most later reviews rest on.