NL-GHK-Cu in the nervous system

NL-GHK-Cu peptide therapy allows for the restoration, preservation, and protection of a properly functioning nervous system. Additionally, it is a therapy that significantly reduces the occurrence of age-related diseases, specifically neurodegenerative diseases.

Summary: A properly functioning nervous system is the foundation for maintaining both physical and mental health, which is why its protection and regeneration are so important. The action of the NL-GHK-Cu peptide allows for the restoration, preservation, and protection of a properly functioning nervous system. Conducted studies show that it is a safe and biologically effective peptide, making it possible to prevent unwanted factors that may cause problems with the nervous system. Its action also results in a significant improvement in the quality of daily life by reducing the occurrence of stress, anxiety states, and more.

Keywords: nervous system; structure of the nervous system; functions of the nervous system; nervous system diseases; NL-GHK-Cu; oxidative stress; brain inflammation; headache; dementia; nervous system inflammation; protection; protective action; anxiolytic action; anti-stress action; gene activation

Introduction

Currently, the most widespread neurological problems are considered to be neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, which cause early deterioration of the body. Despite all advances in neuroscience in recent decades, the age-related decline in cognitive function resulting from neurodegenerative processes in the brain remains a challenge for researchers and clinicians due to the highly complex nature of its pathogenesis. Currently, oxidative stress, disruption of transition metal homeostasis, and neuroinflammation are considered key processes leading to neurodegeneration. Stress, which accompanies a significant number of people in daily life, is also a significant problem. However, all disorders of the nervous system are an important issue, as they significantly deteriorate the quality of life on every level, and above all, these ailments are dangerous in their consequences. NL-GHK-Cu is a human copper-binding peptide with biological activity that has the ability to counteract brain aging, the development of brain diseases and inflammation, and nervous system disorders.

STRUCTURE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Briefly, the human nervous system is divided into the central nervous system, which consists of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, formed by 31 pairs of spinal nerves and 12 pairs of cranial nerves. It influences body functions such as movement, breathing, and blood circulation.

FUNCTIONS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The basic function of the nervous system is to transmit signals, i.e. nerve impulses, between nerve cells. This occurs through the existence of synapses, i.e. connections, primarily between individual neurons, but also between nerve cells, for example, between muscle cells or cells belonging to the sensory organs. Impulses within nerve cells are transmitted because these structures are characterized by electrical excitability. In this way, the signal travels within the nerve cell until it reaches the synapse, more specifically its element called the presynaptic terminal. Under the influence of numerous transformations, molecules called neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic space. They reach the next element of the synapse — the postsynaptic terminal — and after binding to receptors, a new electrical impulse is generated.

MOST COMMON NERVOUS SYSTEM DISEASES

Currently, oxidative stress, disruption of transition metal homeostasis, and neuroinflammation are considered key processes leading to neurodegeneration; however, there are many more nervous system disorders and diseases. For the conditions presented in the table, in addition to traditional methods, GHK-Cu peptide therapy is also helpful.

NL-GHK-CU IN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The action profile of NL-GHK-Cu is based on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective properties as a compound capable of restoring balance and proper functioning of the nervous system, cognitive functions, and preventing many common neurodegenerative conditions.

OXIDATIVE STRESS

Oxidative stress occurs when the balance between the amount of harmful free radicals and antioxidants — whose task is to neutralize the former — is disrupted in the body. This condition can lead to many diseases and accelerated aging of the body. To date, many antioxidant compounds have been considered promising in the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders, including vitamin E, melatonin, green tea polyphenols, and resveratrol. However, studies on these compounds yield mixed results, and many promising approaches, such as vitamin E therapy, do not slow the progression of age-related neurodegenerative diseases — which is why a therapy capable of inhibiting the process of oxidative stress is desirable.

NL-GHK-CU IN INHIBITING OXIDATIVE STRESS

The NL-GHK-Cu peptide, due to the attachment of a copper molecule, helps maintain the proper copper level in the body, thereby preventing reduced SOD activity and increased oxidative damage to the brain. The protective processes against oxidative stress, facilitated by the action of NL-GHK-Cu, occur because the high metabolic activity of the brain leads to increased oxygen consumption and constant production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the mitochondria. At the same time, brain tissue is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and transition metal ions, but has relatively fewer antioxidants compared to other organs, creating favorable conditions for oxidative damage. Since the blood-brain barrier prevents many dietary antioxidants from entering the brain, it largely relies on endogenous antioxidants, such as Cu and Zn-dependent superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn SOD1). This enzyme requires metal ions — copper and zinc — for its activity. Furthermore, several studies have revealed molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of copper in AD, such as the inhibition of beta-amyloid peptide production.

NL-GHK-CU IN NEUROINFLAMMATION

Neuroinflammation caused by overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines is considered a leading causative factor in the development of age-related neurodegenerative diseases or permanent damage to the nervous system. The role of the NL-GHK-Cu peptide is to reduce the overproduction of cytokines, leading to the protection of the nervous system and the elimination of factors that may contribute to its development.

NL-GHK-CU IN STEROID DEMENTIA SYNDROME

Steroid dementia syndrome describes signs and symptoms of hippocampal and prefrontal cortex dysfunction, such as impairment of memory, attention, and executive functions, induced by glucocorticoids. The state of dementia subsides — though not always completely — within a few months after discontinuing steroid treatment. The action of the NL-GHK-Cu peptide, administered systemically, allows for faster elimination of the harmful agent from the body and inhibition of its harmful effects, including dementia.

PROTECTIVE ACTION OF NL-GHK-CU IN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Among the compounds that have protective effects and can reduce oxidative damage are certain neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). NL-GHK-Cu increases the production of neurotrophic factors. The peptide additionally stimulates the growth of cultured nerves, and nerve stumps placed in a collagen tube impregnated with NL-GHK-Cu show increased production of nerve growth factor. Neurotrophins NT-3 and NT-4, under the influence of the peptide, increase cell migration into the collagen tube and accelerate the regeneration of nerve fibers. Furthermore, NL-GHK-Cu also increases the number of axons and the proliferation of Schwann cells.

NL-GHK-CU AND ANXIOLYTIC ACTION

According to experimental studies, during administration of the NL-GHK-Cu peptide, the duration of immobility associated with anxiety was reduced. The action of the peptide causes a reduction in feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and psychological tension, as well as somatic symptoms accompanying these states.

NL-GHK-CU AND ANTI-STRESS ACTION

As mentioned above, GHK-Cu allows for a reduction in anxiety tension. Additionally, it also finds application in neurotic disorders and in accompanying stress, both in the form of prolonged daily stress and in sporadic stressful situations. It is worth noting that stress, especially long-term stress, cannot be eliminated overnight and is generally a process that lasts from several weeks to even several months — which is why systematic and long-term supportive therapy with the NL-GHK-Cu peptide is so important.

ACTIVATION OF GENES RESPONSIBLE FOR INHIBITING FACTORS THAT DAMAGE THE FUNCTIONING OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM BY NL-GHK-CU

NL-GHK-Cu activates numerous genes involved in the physiology, development, and maintenance of the nervous system. A connectivity map was created containing three NL-GHK-Cu gene expression profiles generated using the GeneChip HT Human Genome U133A array. The peptide's action profile is based on the activation of genes responsible for inhibiting factors that damage brain function, thereby promoting protective processes occurring in the nervous system.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

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