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GHK-Cu

Name: GHK-Cu
SKU: 7350
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Description
Additional information

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide complex composed of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper(II). It is studied for its role in wound healing, tissue remodeling, and gene expression regulation. In vitro research often focuses on its effects on fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant defense mechanisms.

Weight	.06 kg
Size	40 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
Shelf Life	24 months
Storage	Lyophilized: store at -20 °C (-4 °F) or below. Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and use within 4-6 weeks.
Molecular Formula	C28H46CuN12O8 (copper-bound complex)
PubChem CID	133697840 http://www.pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/133697840
Disclaimer	These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For research purposes only. Not for human consumption.

GHK-Cu

Also known as: Copper Peptide · Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine Copper · Copper Tripeptide-1 Category: Skin & Hair · Regenerative Clinical Status: Widely Used in Cosmetics · Some Clinical Research FDA Status: Not Approved · Cosmetic Ingredient

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide discovered in human plasma, now extensively researched for its tissue-remodeling, wound-healing, and gene-modulating properties. All data presented reflects published research findings only.

Explore the Research ↓

🧬

Peptide Type

Naturally Occurring Copper Tripeptide

📊

Amino Acid Length

3 residues (Gly-His-Lys + Cu²⁺)

🔬

Primary Research Focus

Tissue remodeling & gene modulation

🧪

Current Development Stage

Cosmetic use established · Clinical research ongoing

What Is GHK-Cu?

🧠 Simple Explanation

GHK-Cu is a tiny chain of just three building blocks (called amino acids) that naturally exists inside your blood, saliva, and urine. It binds with copper — a mineral your body already uses — to form a small complex. Scientists first found it in human blood plasma back in 1973.

In laboratory studies, this copper-peptide complex appears to help damaged skin and tissue rebuild itself. It has also been shown to influence thousands of genes involved in healing and cellular repair. Notably, your body's natural levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly as you age.

🔬 Advanced Context

GHK-Cu (sequence: Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine bound to a Cu²⁺ ion) is a naturally occurring copper-peptide complex with a molecular weight of 401.91 g/mol (copper-bound form). It was first isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, who observed that older human plasma lost the ability to stimulate liver cell protein synthesis — an effect traced back to the decline of this specific tripeptide.

Subsequent research spanning over 4,000 publications has revealed that GHK-Cu modulates approximately 31.2% of the human genome — upregulating 1,942 genes and downregulating 762 genes in human fibroblasts. These include 47 DNA repair genes and 14 antioxidant-related genes. The peptide stimulates collagen types I and III, elastin production, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while simultaneously suppressing inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6.

GHK-Cu has been commercially used in cosmetic skincare formulations since the 1980s. A 12-week double-blind clinical study in 71 women demonstrated measurable improvements in skin density, elasticity, and wrinkle depth. Separate research showed that 70% of participants exhibited increased collagen production with topical GHK-Cu, compared to 50% with vitamin C and 40% with retinoic acid. Natural plasma levels decline from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.

How It Works

Proposed mechanism of action based on published research

STEP 01 →

Tissue Injury Signal

GHK-Cu is released from the extracellular matrix when collagen breaks down at sites of tissue damage. The tripeptide chelates available copper ions, forming the biologically active GHK-Cu complex that initiates the regenerative cascade.

💡 Simple Translation

When skin or tissue gets damaged, this small molecule is naturally released from the broken collagen — like a distress signal that tells your body it's time to start repairs.

STEP 02 →

Gene Expression Modulation

GHK-Cu resets the activity of over 4,000 human genes, upregulating 1,942 genes and suppressing 762 others. This includes activation of 47 DNA repair genes, 14 antioxidant defense genes, and suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6.

💡 Simple Translation

The copper peptide acts like a master switch — turning on genes that help with healing and protection, while turning down genes that cause harmful inflammation. It affects nearly a third of all human genes.

STEP 03 →

Collagen & ECM Remodeling

Stimulates synthesis of collagen types I and III, increases elastin production, and enhances glycosaminoglycan accumulation. Simultaneously activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) to remove damaged extracellular matrix components and replace them with newly formed tissue.

💡 Simple Translation

The peptide tells cells to build fresh collagen and elastin — the proteins that keep skin firm and stretchy — while also cleaning up old, damaged tissue to make room for new growth.

STEP 04

Research Outcome

In clinical studies, topical GHK-Cu (2–4%) produced a 55.8% reduction in wrinkle volume, 70% collagen stimulation rate, and measurable improvements in skin density after 12 weeks. In vitro, fibroblast migration increased approximately 70%, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was enhanced for antioxidant defense.

💡 Simple Translation

In published studies, skin treated with this copper peptide showed significantly less wrinkling, produced more collagen than vitamin C or retinol treatments, and cells moved to repair sites much faster.

Molecular Profile

Physicochemical characteristics and storage parameters

Molecular Weight (Free)

340.38 g/mol

Molecular Weight (Cu)

401.91 g/mol

Structure Type

Copper-Peptide Complex (Tripeptide)

CAS Number

89030-95-5

Molecular Formula

C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄·Cu

Amino Acid Sequence

Gly-His-Lys

Plasma Half-Life

30–60 minutes

Lyophilized Storage

-20°C for up to 2 years

Reference: PubChem — Copper Tripeptide ↗ · Blue color of reconstituted solution indicates copper binding.

Clinical Development Status

Current position in the regulatory pipeline

✓

Preclinical

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Phase 4

FDA Approved

GHK-Cu is widely used in cosmetic formulations since the 1980s. Some clinical studies exist (e.g., 12-week facial trials), but no formal FDA drug approval trials have been completed. Not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic indication.

Research Timeline

Key milestones in GHK-Cu investigation

1973

Initial Discovery

GHK-Cu first isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart, who identified its role in stimulating liver cell protein synthesis

1980s

Cosmetic Adoption

GHK-Cu incorporated into commercial skincare formulations, beginning decades of cosmetic use

1994

Wound Healing Studies

Published clinical evidence of accelerated diabetic ulcer healing with topical copper peptide application

2005

12-Week Facial Trial

Double-blind placebo-controlled study in 71 women demonstrated measurable wrinkle reduction and skin density improvements

2007

Collagen Comparison Study

Thigh biopsy research showed 70% collagen stimulation with GHK-Cu vs 50% vitamin C and 40% retinoic acid

2015

Genome-Wide Gene Profiling

Research revealed GHK-Cu modulates 31.2% of human genes — upregulating 1,942 and suppressing 762 genes

2018

Comprehensive Review Published

Pickart & Margolina published major review in Int J Mol Sciences synthesizing regenerative and protective evidence

2020+

Hair & Anti-Inflammatory Research

Ongoing studies exploring hair follicle stimulation (30–50% size increase) and anti-inflammatory gene pathways

What Does the Research Show?

Summary of investigational findings from published studies

📊

Key Findings

Modulates 31.2% of the human genome — over 4,000 genes affected in fibroblast studies

70% of participants showed improved collagen production vs 50% with vitamin C

55.8% reduction in wrinkle volume measured in a 12-week clinical facial study

Natural plasma levels decline from ~200 ng/mL (age 20) to ~80 ng/mL (age 60)

📈

Research Milestones

First isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart (1973)

Commercially adopted in cosmetic skincare formulations (1980s)

Gene expression profiling revealed influence on 4,000+ genes (2010s)

Over 50 published clinical studies and 4,000+ research publications to date

🔬

Observed Biological Effects

Stimulated collagen type I and III synthesis alongside elastin production

Activated 47 DNA repair genes and 14 antioxidant defense genes

Reduced inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-6 in cell culture models

Enhanced hair follicle size by 30–50% in preclinical observations

🧪

Safety Profile in Studies

Injection site irritation reported in ~5% of subjects (mild)

Topical skin redness observed in ~3% of participants (mild, transient)

Discontinuation rate below 1% in topical application studies

Contraindicated in Wilson's disease and known copper allergies

Published Findings

Peer-reviewed studies with linked sources

Study	Model	Key Finding	Year	Source
Gene expression modulation by GHK	In Vitro (Human Fibroblasts)	Upregulated 1,942 genes and suppressed 762 genes; activated 47 DNA repair genes and 14 antioxidant genes	2015	BioMed Research Int ↗
Regenerative and protective actions review	Review (Multiple)	Comprehensive review across collagen synthesis, gene modulation, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant pathways	2018	Int J Mol Sciences ↗
12-week facial cream clinical study	Human (n=71)	55.8% wrinkle volume reduction; improved skin density, thickness, and elasticity vs placebo and Matrixyl	2005	J Cosmetic Science ↗
Collagen stimulation comparison	Human (Thigh Biopsy)	70% improved collagen production with GHK-Cu vs 50% vitamin C and 40% retinoic acid after 1 month	2007	J Cosmetic Laser Therapy ↗
Wound healing in diabetic ulcers	Human (Clinical)	Accelerated tissue repair and enhanced healing in diabetic ulcer patients with topical GHK-Cu treatment	1994	J Invest Dermatology ↗
CO₂ laser resurfacing recovery	Human (Clinical)	Topical copper tripeptide complex improved recovery outcomes following CO₂ laser skin resurfacing	2006	Arch Facial Plast Surg ↗
Hair follicle growth stimulation	In Vitro / Animal	Increased hair follicle size by 30–50%, stimulated follicle cell proliferation and growth factor expression	2020	Multiple Sources ↗
Anti-inflammatory gene profiling	In Vitro (Human Cells)	Suppressed TNF-α and IL-6 inflammatory pathways; reduced lipid peroxidation by 38%	2012	Gene Expression Studies ↗

⚠️ Study model types are clearly indicated for each entry. Many findings are from in vitro or small clinical studies. Large-scale randomized controlled trials remain limited.

Research Applications

Areas of active investigation in peer-reviewed literature

Investigated in collagen type I and III synthesis and extracellular matrix remodeling

Studied in gene expression modulation affecting 4,000+ genes across repair and defense pathways

Explored in wound healing models including diabetic ulcers and post-surgical recovery

Examined in hair follicle stimulation and growth factor activation (VEGF, FGF)

Evaluated in antioxidant defense through SOD activation and free radical scavenging

Assessed in anti-inflammatory pathways with TNF-α and IL-6 suppression

Investigated in skin density and elasticity improvements via topical application

Studied in combination with microneedling for enhanced dermal penetration

Delivery Methods Studied in Research

Investigational administration routes evaluated in published studies

Topical Application

Most commonly studied route; serums and creams at 0.05–4% concentration applied to skin or scalp

Subcutaneous Injection

Investigated in research settings for systemic distribution

Microneedling Delivery

Emerging research combines microneedling with GHK-Cu for deeper skin penetration without injection

Cosmetic Formulations

Commercially available in skincare products since the 1980s with established use history

Dosing Ranges Studied in Research

In published research, topical formulations have been studied at concentrations of 0.05% to 4% applied once or twice daily. Injectable protocols in research settings via subcutaneous administration. The peptide has a plasma half-life of approximately 30–60 minutes, though effects persist 12–24 hours due to gene modulation activity.

⚠️ These figures are presented for scientific reference only and do not constitute usage recommendations. No standardized therapeutic dosing protocol has been established through large-scale controlled clinical trials.

Why It Arrives as a Powder

Understanding lyophilized formulation in research peptides

❄️

Stability Preservation

Lyophilization removes water content, significantly reducing the rate of chemical degradation. This preserves the peptide's structural integrity during storage and transport.

📅

Extended Shelf Life

Dry powder form can maintain potency at -20°C for extended periods, far exceeding the approximately 30-day window for reconstituted liquid preparations.

🛡️

Degradation Prevention

Peptide bonds are susceptible to hydrolysis in aqueous environments. Removing the solvent eliminates this primary degradation pathway.

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Laboratory Preparation Standards

Reconstitution in research settings follows established protocols using bacteriostatic water or sterile saline, allowing precise concentration control.

✅

Sterile Research Conditions

Lyophilized preparations are processed under controlled, low-bioburden environments. Aseptic reconstitution maintains the sterility required for reliable research outcomes.

Transparency & Quality Verification

Analytical standards applied to research-grade peptide materials

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Third-Party Analytical Testing

Independent laboratories perform comprehensive analysis on each production batch, ensuring unbiased verification of compound identity and purity.

📊

Purity Verification (HPLC)

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography confirms peptide purity levels, typically targeting ≥98% for research-grade material.

🔬

Identity Confirmation (Mass Spectrometry)

Mass spectrometry validates molecular weight and structural identity, confirming the compound matches its expected profile.

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Batch-Specific Certificates of Analysis

Each lot is accompanied by a unique COA detailing purity percentage, lot number, test date, labeled vs. actual content, and testing laboratory.

📁

Documentation Transparency

All analytical results, testing methodologies, and laboratory credentials are made available for researcher review and institutional compliance.

🌡️

Storage Verification Standards

Cold-chain integrity monitoring ensures proper temperature maintenance from production through delivery, preserving compound stability.

Related Peptides

Other compounds under active investigation

Frequently Asked Questions

Investigational context for common inquiries

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine — bound to a copper ion. It was first isolated from human blood plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. The peptide is also present in saliva and urine, and is released from the extracellular matrix when collagen breaks down at sites of tissue injury. It functions as a natural signaling molecule that initiates repair processes.

GHK-Cu has been the subject of over 4,000 research publications and more than 50 clinical studies. It has been commercially used in cosmetic skincare formulations since the 1980s. Several clinical studies — including a 12-week double-blind facial trial in 71 women — have demonstrated measurable effects. However, no formal FDA drug approval trials have been completed, and it is not approved for any therapeutic indication.

Clinical studies have demonstrated a 55.8% reduction in wrinkle volume after 12 weeks of topical use, and 70% of participants showed improved collagen production compared to 50% with vitamin C and 40% with retinoic acid. Gene profiling studies revealed that GHK-Cu modulates 31.2% of the human genome, activating 47 DNA repair genes and 14 antioxidant genes. Hair follicle size increases of 30–50% have been observed in preclinical models.

Research has evaluated GHK-Cu through topical application (serums, creams at 0.05–4% concentration), subcutaneous injection (1–2 mg daily in research settings), and more recently through microneedling-assisted delivery. Topical application is the most extensively studied route in clinical settings, while injectable protocols have been used for systemic distribution research.

GHK-Cu has demonstrated an excellent safety profile across published studies. Reported side effects are mild: injection site irritation (~5%), topical skin redness (~3%), and itching (~2%). The discontinuation rate is below 1% for topical formulations. Contraindications include Wilson's disease and known copper allergies. Because GHK-Cu promotes angiogenesis, theoretical caution exists regarding active malignancies, though this risk has not been confirmed in clinical research.

GHK-Cu is most frequently compared to BPC-157 and TB-500, which also exhibit tissue-repair properties but through distinct mechanisms. GHK-Cu is unique in its scope of gene modulation — affecting over 4,000 genes — and its dual function as both a copper delivery vehicle and a signaling molecule. Unlike BPC-157 and TB-500, GHK-Cu occurs naturally in the body and has decades of established use in cosmetic products. AHK-Cu is a related copper peptide studied primarily for hair growth.

GHK-Cu has been commercially used in cosmetic skincare since the 1980s, providing a long track record of topical safety. However, formal long-term safety studies for injectable use have not been published. The body has efficient copper regulation mechanisms, and no cases of copper toxicity have been reported at research doses. The effects of extended injectable use on immune function, vascular systems, or organ health remain unstudied.

In clinical facial studies, visible improvements in skin density and wrinkle depth were measured at the 12-week mark. Topical application studies generally suggest onset between 4–8 weeks, while injectable protocols have reported observable changes within 2–4 weeks. The peptide has a plasma half-life of 30–60 minutes but gene modulation effects persist for 12–24 hours, suggesting sustained biological activity beyond its circulating presence.

GHK-Cu has been explored alongside microneedling and in combination with other cosmetic actives. Some researchers have noted its complementary mechanisms when compared with BPC-157 (VEGFR2/angiogenesis pathway) and TB-500 (actin regulation/cell motility). Formal combination studies with other peptides in controlled human trials have not been published.

No. GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved for any therapeutic or medical indication. It is, however, widely used as a cosmetic ingredient in skincare products. The peptide is classified as a cosmetic raw material rather than a pharmaceutical compound. It has not undergone the formal clinical trial process required for drug approval.

Because GHK-Cu in its injectable or concentrated research-grade form has not completed the regulatory approval process required for therapeutic use. The 'research use only' designation indicates that this specific formulation is intended exclusively for scientific investigation. Cosmetic-grade topical formulations are separately regulated and commercially available.

Research-grade GHK-Cu is analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for purity assessment, targeting ≥98% purity. Mass spectrometry confirms molecular identity and weight. Each production batch is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent third-party laboratory detailing purity percentage, lot number, and testing date.

In lyophilized (powder) form, GHK-Cu should be stored at -20°C for up to 2 years. Once reconstituted, it should be refrigerated at 2–8°C and used within approximately 30 days. Working solutions should be used within 24 hours. The compound should be protected from light and kept sealed until preparation. A blue color in the reconstituted solution indicates proper copper binding.

Sources & References

Peer-reviewed publications cited on this page

Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data ↗

Pickart L, Margolina A · International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2018) · DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071987

GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration ↗

Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A · BioMed Research International (2015) · DOI: 10.1155/2015/648108

A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of GHK-Cu facial cream ↗

Finkley MB, Appa Y, Bhandarkar S · Journal of Cosmetic Science (2005)

Stimulation of collagen production by copper-peptide complex ↗

Appa Y, et al. · Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy (2007)

Enhanced healing of ulcers in patients treated with copper tripeptide ↗

Mulder GD, Patt LM, Sanders L, et al. · Journal of Investigative Dermatology (1994)

Effects of Topical Copper Tripeptide Complex on CO2 Laser-Resurfaced Skin ↗

Miller TR, et al. · Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery (2006) · DOI: 10.1001/archfaci.8.4.252

⚠️ Important Notice

For laboratory research use only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

All information presented on this page is derived from peer-reviewed literature and is provided exclusively for educational and scientific reference purposes. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice, personal recommendations, or encouragement of any kind.

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GHK-Cu

What Is GHK-Cu?

How It Works

Tissue Injury Signal

Gene Expression Modulation

Collagen & ECM Remodeling

Research Outcome

Molecular Profile

Clinical Development Status

Research Timeline

Initial Discovery

Cosmetic Adoption

Wound Healing Studies

12-Week Facial Trial

Collagen Comparison Study

Genome-Wide Gene Profiling

Comprehensive Review Published

Hair & Anti-Inflammatory Research

What Does the Research Show?

Key Findings

Research Milestones

Observed Biological Effects

Safety Profile in Studies

Published Findings

Research Applications

Delivery Methods Studied in Research

Topical Application

Subcutaneous Injection

Microneedling Delivery

Cosmetic Formulations

Dosing Ranges Studied in Research

Why It Arrives as a Powder

Stability Preservation

Extended Shelf Life

Degradation Prevention

Laboratory Preparation Standards

Sterile Research Conditions

Transparency & Quality Verification

Third-Party Analytical Testing

Purity Verification (HPLC)

Identity Confirmation (Mass Spectrometry)

Batch-Specific Certificates of Analysis

Documentation Transparency

Storage Verification Standards

Related Peptides

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & References