Alpha-Defensin vs GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Alpha-Defensin
Alpha-defensins are small cationic peptides that are key components of the innate immune system. They have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
Full details →GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays important roles in wound healing, tissue repair, and has shown anti-aging properties in research.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Alpha-Defensin | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Insert into microbial membranes to form pores, leading to cell death. Also have immunomodulatory effects including chemotaxis of immune cells and cytokine modulation. | Attracts immune cells and fibroblasts to wound sites, stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and has antioxidant effects. Modulates gene expression related to tissue repair. |
| Typical Dosage | Research compound - dosing varies by application. Typically studied in laboratory and early clinical research settings rather than for general use. | Topical: Applied as serum or cream 1-2 times daily. Injectable: 1-2mg daily for research purposes. Microneedling protocols often use 0.5-1%. |
| Administration | Various routes studied including topical, local injection, and systemic administration depending on application. | Most commonly used topically for skin applications. Can be injected subcutaneously for systemic effects. Often combined with microneedling for enhanced skin penetration. |
| Side Effects | Limited human use data. May cause local inflammation. Potential for immune activation effects. | Topical use is generally well-tolerated. May cause temporary skin irritation or redness in sensitive individuals. Injectable use may cause injection site reactions. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Alpha-Defensin and GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) are commonly used for: