Growth-modulating peptide
[CAS# 49557-75-7]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Amino acids and their derivatives >> Lysine derivative
• Name: Growth-modulating peptide
• Synonyms: Liver growth factor; Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine; (2S)-6-Amino-2-[[(2S)-2-[(2-aminoacetyl)amino]-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoyl]amino]hexanoic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄
• Molecular Weight: 340.38
• Protein Sequence: GHK
• CAS Registry Number: 49557-75-7
• SMILES: C1=C(NC=N1)C[C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)O)NC(=O)CN

Properties

• Density: 1.324

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Growth-modulating peptides are a class of biologically active peptides discovered through the study of cellular signaling and growth regulation mechanisms. Initially identified in the late 20th century during research on growth factors and hormones, these peptides were found to play critical roles in modulating cellular growth, differentiation, and repair. Their discovery was facilitated by advancements in molecular biology and peptide synthesis technologies, allowing scientists to isolate and characterize these peptides from various biological sources.

Growth-modulating peptides have significant therapeutic potential in medicine. They are used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, where they can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. In regenerative medicine, these peptides promote tissue repair and regeneration, making them valuable in healing wounds, burns, and other injuries. They are also explored for their role in treating chronic conditions such as diabetes by promoting the regeneration of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

In the cosmetics industry, growth-modulating peptides are popular ingredients in anti-aging formulations. They stimulate collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. By promoting cellular turnover and repair, these peptides help maintain youthful and healthy-looking skin. Their inclusion in serums, creams, and other skincare products is driven by their ability to deliver visible improvements in skin texture and firmness.

Growth-modulating peptides are used in agriculture to enhance crop growth and resistance to environmental stressors. By modulating the growth of plants at the cellular level, these peptides improve crop yield and quality. They help plants better withstand drought, pests, and diseases, contributing to more sustainable and productive agricultural practices. Additionally, they are used to enhance the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, promoting healthier plant development.

In research, growth-modulating peptides are essential tools for studying cellular processes and signaling pathways. They help scientists understand the mechanisms of cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. In biotechnology, these peptides are used to engineer tissues and develop new biomaterials. Their ability to precisely modulate cellular functions makes them invaluable in tissue engineering and the development of bioactive scaffolds for regenerative medicine.

Growth-modulating peptides are also applied in veterinary medicine to promote the health and growth of livestock and pets. They are used to improve healing processes in animals, enhance growth rates, and increase resistance to diseases. These peptides support the overall well-being of animals by modulating their cellular growth and immune responses.

References

1980. Growth-modulating tripeptide (glycylhistidyllysine): association with copper and iron in plasma, and stimulation of adhesiveness and growth of hepatoma cells in culture by tripeptide-metal ion complexes. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 102(2).
DOI: 6246126

2024. The glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ tripeptide complex attenuates lung inflammation and fibrosis in silicosis by targeting peroxiredoxin 6. Redox Biology, 75.
DOI: PMC11228880

1979. Effect of transition metals on recovery from plasma of the growth-modulating tripeptide glycylhistidyllysine. Journal of Chromatography A, 178(2).
DOI: 546910