GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide / GHK-Copper / Copper Tripeptide-1
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper(II)) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that declines significantly with age. First identified by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973 from human albumin, it functions as a potent wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and tissue remodeling signal with demonstrated effects on gene expression affecting over 4,000 human genes. It is researched both as an injectable peptide and as a topical cosmeceutical ingredient for skin rejuvenation, hair growth, and collagen synthesis.
Mechanism of Action
Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) complexed with copper(II). Activates tissue remodeling genes, promotes collagen synthesis, increases decorin and glycosaminoglycan production, and recruits stem cells to injury sites. Also suppresses TGF-beta to reduce scarring.
Research Protocols
For research purposes only. Not medical advice.
Topical: 1-2% concentration applied twice daily. Subcutaneous: 50-200mcg daily near target area. Research cycles of 4-8 weeks for injectable use. Topical use is ongoing.
Research Notes
Clinical Research Status
GHK-Cu has extensive in vitro and animal research spanning over 50 years, with numerous published studies on wound healing, skin remodeling, and gene expression modulation. Multiple topical formulations containing GHK-Cu are commercially available as cosmeceuticals, though injectable forms remain investigational. No FDA-approved drug product exists, but the compound has GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in topical applications.
Key Published Findings
Gene expression studies (Broad Institute Connectivity Map) demonstrate that GHK-Cu resets approximately 32% of human genes toward a pattern associated with younger tissue, including upregulation of collagen, decorin, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. Research shows it stimulates production of glycosaminoglycans, promotes angiogenesis, and recruits immune cells to wound sites. Published data confirm it increases fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis by up to 70%, and significantly accelerates wound contraction in animal models.
Safety Profile
GHK-Cu has an excellent safety profile in both topical and injectable applications, with no significant adverse effects reported in published literature. Plasma GHK levels in healthy young adults are approximately 200ng/mL, declining to ~80ng/mL by age 60, suggesting physiological familiarity. Topical concentrations of 1-4% are well-tolerated without irritation, and injectable doses used in research (1-5mg daily) have not produced notable adverse events.
Drug Interactions & Contraindications
Theoretical concern exists with Wilson's disease (copper storage disorder) or other conditions of copper overload, as the peptide delivers bioavailable copper. May interfere with copper chelation therapy (penicillamine, trientine). No significant drug interactions have been documented, though concurrent use with other copper supplements should be monitored.
Comparison to Related Compounds
Unlike synthetic growth factors (EGF, FGF) which target single pathways, GHK-Cu acts as a broad-spectrum tissue remodeling signal affecting thousands of genes simultaneously. Compared to retinoids for skin anti-aging, GHK-Cu produces collagen stimulation without the irritation, dryness, or photosensitivity. AHK-Cu (Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine:Copper) is a related analog with similar but less-studied properties.
Community Observations
Injectable research protocols typically use 1-5mg subcutaneously daily or several times per week, often combined with BPC-157 or TB-500 for systemic tissue repair. Topical application (cream, serum) at 1-3% concentration is popular for facial rejuvenation, hair thinning, and scar reduction with visible results typically reported at 4-8 weeks. The peptide is notable for its dual utility as both an injectable research compound and a commercially available topical with legitimate cosmetic efficacy.
Half Life
~30-60 minutes
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water (BAC) for injection; aqueous solution for topical
Storage
Lyophilized
Refrigerate 2-8C up to 24 months.
Reconstituted
Refrigerate 2-8C. Use within 21 days.
US Legal Status
Also Known As
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