The present invention relates to an isolated peptide, wherein the sequence of the peptide consists of SEQ ID NO: 5 (MGRN) or SEQ ID NO: 2 (KMGRN), wherein the peptide is in free acid form, amidated at the carboxy terminus or lipidated at the amine terminus. The disclosed peptides comprise a useful agent for the medical treatment of injury to the skin, such as from diabetic ulcers. The peptides also are effective in preventing and reversing skin surface damage resulting from various environmental insults. Importantly, the therapeutic effects of the peptides manifest at concentrations equal to or greater than those of peptide HB-107, and thus represent a less expensive, more versatile means for developing effective therapies. Methods for the production and use of these peptides are also disclosed.
