GHK-CuAlso known as: Copper Tripeptide-1, GHK-Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide that modulates gene expression related to tissue remodeling, antioxidant defense, anti-inflammatory responses, and connective tissue synthesis. It facilitates cellular communication by binding copper ions, which activates metalloproteinases and growth factors involved in collagen and elastin production, DNA repair, and cellular proliferation. This leads to enhanced wound healing, stimulation of dermal fibroblasts, and anti-aging effects through extracellular matrix remodeling.

Reported Research Benefits

Primarily investigated for improving skin regeneration, enhancing collagen and elastin synthesis, promoting wound healing, reducing scars and wrinkles, stimulating hair follicle growth, and modulating inflammation and oxidative stress in preclinical dermatological and regenerative medicine research.

Dosing Protocol & Reconstitution

For laboratory research, GHK-Cu is typically supplied as lyophilized powder and reconstituted in bacteriostatic water. Concentrations used in vitro or in animal models vary, but common experimental dosing involves subcutaneous injections in animal studies or topical application in skin models. The peptide is stored refrigerated at 2–8°C after reconstitution and used within 60 days for stability.

Research Notes

GHK-Cu has shown potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects in various preclinical studies focusing on skin aging, wound healing, and hair growth. Its modulation of gene expression relevant to extracellular matrix remodeling supports improved skin elasticity and structure. Clinical trials are limited but preclinical data support its broad therapeutic potential. The peptide’s half-life in vivo is short due to rapid metabolism, which is why repeated administration or formulation stabilization is needed in experimental settings.

Research Summary

GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper) is a naturally occurring human plasma tripeptide that declines with age. It modulates over 4,000 human genes, stimulating collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and exerting antioxidant effects. Clinical studies confirm efficacy in skin regeneration, and animal data supports systemic anti-aging and tissue repair properties.

Side Effects & Safety

Excellent safety profile in topical and subcutaneous use. Systemic copper accumulation is unlikely at standard research doses. Possible injection site irritation. Beneficial effect on copper enzyme systems; monitor in Wilson's disease.

Stability & Storage

Refer to research notes

Molecular Data

Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (GHK)
Molecular Formula: C14H24N6O4Cu
Molecular Weight: 340.8 g/mol
CAS Number: 49557-75-7
IUPAC Name: N-(2-aminoacetyl)-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(2+) complex

Primary literature: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=GHK-Cu+copper+peptide+wound+healing