Pal-GHK vs Larazotide Acetate
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pal-GHKRecovery & Repair
Larazotide Acetate- Summary
- Pal-GHK is the palmitoylated form of the GHK tripeptide without a copper ion. By conjugating palmitic acid to glycine-histidine-lysine, skin penetration is substantially enhanced, enabling deeper dermal collagen stimulation. It is commonly paired with Pal-GHK-Cu or GHK-Cu in anti-aging formulations.
- Larazotide acetate is an 8-amino acid peptide (Gly-Gly-Val-Leu-Val-Gln-Pro-Gly) derived from Zonula Occludens Toxin (ZOT) of Vibrio cholerae. It paradoxically acts as a ZOT antagonist to close tight junctions and reduce intestinal permeability ('leaky gut'). It is the most advanced clinical compound targeting gut permeability directly.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- Local gut action; minimal systemic exposure
- Admin Route
- Topical
- Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.005–0.1% in formulation
- 0.5-2 mg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 3x daily
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis in dermis
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Inhibits collagenase (MMP-1) to preserve existing collagen
- Enhances wound healing and skin repair
- Well-tolerated in anti-aging serums and creams
- Directly reduces intestinal tight junction permeability
- Clinical efficacy in celiac disease (Phase 3 trials)
- Reduces systemic inflammation from gut permeability
- Targets root cause of leaky gut (Zonulin pathway)
- Local gut action without systemic absorption
- Potential application in IBS, IBD, autoimmune conditions
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare skin irritation at very high concentrations
- Possible formulation-dependent comedogenicity
- Headache (mild, dose-dependent)
- Nausea (rare)
- Well-tolerated overall in clinical trials
- Stacks With
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