PEG-MGF vs AHK-Cu
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
PEG-MGF
PEG-MGF (PEGylated Mechano Growth Factor) is a variant of IGF-1 that is produced in response to muscle damage. PEGylation extends its half-life from minutes to several hours, making it practical for use.
Full details →AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-3, Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper) is a copper peptide similar to GHK-Cu but with different properties. It's used for hair growth and skin rejuvenation applications.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | PEG-MGF | AHK-Cu |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Activates muscle satellite cells (stem cells) and promotes their fusion to existing muscle fibers for repair and growth. MGF is produced naturally in response to mechanical stress on muscles. | The copper-binding tripeptide stimulates collagen synthesis and may promote hair follicle enlargement. Works similarly to GHK-Cu but may have distinct receptor interactions. |
| Typical Dosage | Research protocols typically use 200-400mcg injected into targeted muscle groups 2-3 times weekly, usually post-workout. | Topical: 0.5-2% concentration in serums for skin or scalp applications. Often combined with other growth factors for hair formulations. |
| Administration | Intramuscular injection, ideally into muscles trained that day. Best administered post-workout when satellite cell activation is relevant. | Topical application to skin or scalp. Can be used with microneedling for enhanced penetration. May cause temporary blue-green tint at high concentrations. |
| Side Effects | Injection site soreness, potential hypoglycemia, and localized swelling. Generally well-tolerated. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Temporary discoloration possible. |
| Best For |