Scientists made a tiny carrier (like a liposome) that holds the copper peptide GHK‑Cu, protecting it from breakdown and letting it release slowly. In lab tests on skin cells, this formulation boosted antioxidant defenses (via Nrf2 and SIRT1) and cut down inflammation, cell aging, and death caused by oxidative stress. It points to a more stable, effective way to use GHK‑Cu in skin‑care products.

Peptides are recognized as highly effective and safe bioactive ingredients. However, t their practical application is limited and hampered by harsh conditions for practical drug delivery. Hence, a novel peptide nanocarrier of copper peptide (GHK-Cu) encapsulation developed by liposome technology combined with the classical Chinese concept of rigidity and flexibility. Different polyols were selected as modification ligands for phospholipid bilayers to construct a nano drug-carrying system with high loading rate, good stability and biocompatibility. In vitro, this complex not only significantly retarded the release ability of copper peptides, but also enabled copper peptides to be effectively resistant to enzymatic degradation. Furthermore, cellular experiments showed that this system mainly regulates Nrf2, SIRT1, and PEG2/COX-2-related signaling pathways, thus effectively counteracting cellular inflammation, senescence, and apoptosis from oxidative damage. Interestingly, a green, non-toxic, efficient and convenient antioxidant system was developed for the prevention and deceleration of skin aging.