Minimizing side effects Several strategies reduce the likelihood and severity of side effects: Start low and titrate up
A 2012 study in the Journal of Peptide Science compared copper-bound and copper-free forms of the tripeptide in skin stem-cell-recovery models, providing a direct fragment-versus-complex contrast useful for interpreting the broader literature (PMID 23019153)
Also affects other pro-angiogenic factors (FGF, angiopoietin)
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GHK-Cu and Extracellular Matrix Research Research confirms that GHK stimulates synthesis of collagen, dermatan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and the small proteoglycan decorin, while also modulating metalloproteinase activity and their inhibitors making it a key compound in extracellular matrix research
Obtaining a blood copper level is recommended (ordered through your physician)