Comparison
AOD-9604 vs. GHK-Cu
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Cosmetic
CAS no.
221231-10-3
49557-75-7
Molecular weight
1815.09 g/mol
340.4 g/mol
Half-life
0.4 h
no data
Sequence
Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-PheGHKMechanism of action
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 corresponds to the C-terminal fragment 176-191 of human growth hormone with an additional N-terminal tyrosine. In animal models, lipolytic effects without GH-typical adverse events (insulin resistance, IGF-1 rise) were reported. In humans, these preclinical findings did not translate into clinically relevant weight reduction in the four phase-2 obesity trials. The exact human mechanism of action is unclear; the GH receptor is not classically activated by the fragment.
GHK-Cu
Endogenous tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) that chelates copper(II) ions. In skin-cell models and skin biopsies an influence on collagen synthesis, antioxidant markers, gene-expression profiles and wound-healing processes has been described. In topical use in cosmetic studies, changes in various skin parameters have been reported.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
3
3
of which in humans
2
1
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
2