Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2(GHK-Cu) Attenuates CuSOor LPS induced-inflammation in Zebrafish larvae model.

Abstract

Inflammation serves as a basic defense mechanism against both internal and external threats, while the unresolved or excessive inflammation can lead to irreversible tissue damage. Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu(GHK-Cu), a bioactive tripeptide complex known for its anti-aging and tissue repair properties, is extensively utilized in dermatological and hair care formulations. However, the role of GHK-Cu in regulating inflammation is less known. In this study, we explored the anti-inflammatory effects of GHK-Cu against the acute inflammation induced by copper sulfate (CuSO) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in zebrafish larvae. GHK-Cu notably decreased the migration of neutrophils and macrophages, suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tnf-a, il-1β, il6) and increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine il-10. Moreover, GHK-Cu mitigated oxidative stress by reducing levels of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and improved superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Furthermore, pathway analysis revealed that GHK-Cu administration downregulated the JAK1 pathway. In summary, this study highlights the dual role of GHK-Cu in both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, which provides the theoretical evidences supporting its addition as a functional cosmetic ingredient.