Comparison
Exenatide vs. GHK-Cu
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Cosmetic
CAS no.
141758-74-9
49557-75-7
Molecular weight
4186.6 g/mol
340.4 g/mol
Half-life
2.4 h
no data
Sequence
HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPPSGHKMechanism of action
Exenatide
Exenatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with about 53% sequence homology to human GLP-1. A glycine substitution at position 2 prevents dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV cleavage and extends the half-life from native GLP-1 (minutes) to about 2.4 hours. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon and delays gastric emptying.
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
5
3
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
2