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GHK-Cu

Copper Peptide · Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine Copper

Anti-Aging & SkinPhase II
From$0.05/mgCompare prices
MW
742.3g/mol
Formula
C28H46CuN12O8

GHK-Cu, or glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine copper complex, is a naturally occurring peptide found in human serum, known for its regenerative and protective properties. Researchers primarily study GHK-Cu for its potential in tissue repair, wound healing, and anti-aging applications. Key findings from studies indicate that GHK-Cu stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to its ability to enhance skin remodeling and cognitive function. Current research is focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying these diverse actions and exploring its therapeutic applications in various fields, including dermatology and orthopedics. Despite promising preclinical evidence, further clinical studies are necessary to validate its efficacy and safety in human populations.

Chemical Profile

Chemical Profile

Chemical structure
Chemical Structure
FormulaC28H46CuN12O8
Molecular Weight742.3 g/mol
CAS Number130120-56-8
PubChem CID9831891

Half-Life

INIntranasal

Not applicable

POOral

Poor bioavailability

Topical application is the most common due to poor systemic bioavailability.

Mechanism

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) exerts its biological effects primarily through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways, including the PI3K/Akt, mTOR, and TGF-β pathways, which are crucial for tissue regeneration and inflammation resolution. It enhances angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling by activating fibroblast functions and promoting collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis. The precise receptors and complete mechanistic details remain to be fully elucidated, indicating that further research is needed to clarify its action at the molecular level.

Research

61 Research Publications

1,886

Total Citations

11

Human/RCT

2.3

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

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#01

Redox chemistry of copper-amyloid-beta: the generation of hydroxyl radical in the presence of ascorbate is linked to redox-potentials and aggregation state.

In VitroInfluence4.0
235
Researchers observed that the copper complex of the beta-amyloid peptide (Cu-Abeta) produced hydroxyl radicals at varying rates, with Gly-His-Lys (Cu-GHK) showing the highest production linked to its redox potential.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months15 mg/kgintranasal(C57BL/6 mice)2 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)not specified
PubMed
#02

The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.

ReviewInfluence8.0
219
Researchers observed that GHK-Cu activates multiple tissue remodeling processes and enhances wound healing, demonstrating significant effects on skin elasticity and reducing fine lines in controlled studies.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#03

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

Pickart Loren & Margolina Anna · International journal of molecular sciences · 2018

ReviewInfluence9.0
149
Researchers observed that GHK exhibits regenerative and protective actions across various tissues, including anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects, supported by recent genetic data revealing multiple regulated biochemical pathways.

Key findings

  1. 01GHK-Cu stimulates the growth of blood vessels and nerves and increases the production of important skin proteins like collagen and elastin.
  2. 02The peptide shows protective effects against cancer and inflammation, and may aid in the recovery of lung tissues affected by chronic diseases.
  3. 03Recent genetic research suggests that GHK-Cu influences multiple biochemical pathways, explaining its wide-ranging health benefits.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#04

In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds.

AnimalInfluence1.0
105
The study demonstrated that GHK-Cu significantly increased extracellular matrix accumulation in experimental wounds in rats, highlighting its potential in wound healing.
PubMed
#05

The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures.

In VitroInfluence1.0
98
Researchers observed that GHK-Cu stimulates the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in cultured fibroblasts, enhancing extracellular matrix remodeling.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#06

The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging: implications for cognitive health.

ReviewInfluence3.0
98
The study demonstrated that the human tripeptide GHK exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent against age-associated neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#07

Protective effects of GHK-Cu in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation pathways.

Animal
69
Researchers observed that GHK-Cu protects against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice by inhibiting inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition through various signaling pathways.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#08

Stimulation of sulfated glycosaminoglycan synthesis by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.

In Vitro
63
The study demonstrated that GHK-Cu induced a dose-dependent increase in glycosaminoglycan synthesis in human fibroblasts, highlighting its potential role in wound healing.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#09

The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice.

AnimalInfluence4.0
62
Researchers observed that GHK-Cu reduced inflammatory responses and lung histological alterations in a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury.
15 mg/kgintranasal(mouse)3 months0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)on alternate day
PubMed
#10

Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts.

In VitroInfluence1.0
59
The study demonstrated that GHK-Cu accelerates the growth of both normal and irradiated human dermal fibroblasts, enhancing the production of basic fibroblast growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor.
0.2 µg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)not mentioned2 µg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)not mentioned20 µg/g/dayintraperitoneal(mouse)not mentioned
PubMed
Safety

Safety & Handling

Research Gaps

No clinical trials support the use of GHK-Cu for musculoskeletal conditions, leaving its efficacy and safety in this context unverified. Additionally, the long-term effects of GHK-Cu on tissue regeneration and its mechanisms of action in humans remain unclear, particularly regarding its influence on specific biochemical pathways and potential interactions with other treatments.

Solubility

GHK-Cu is soluble in water and aqueous solutions.

Storage & Handling

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Safety information is derived from published research and may not reflect all known risks. This is not medical advice.

Legal Status

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Not approved as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance. Sale as research chemical is a legal grey area.

🇺🇸US

Not approved by the FDA as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance.

🇦🇺AU

Not listed in the TGA schedules as a therapeutic good.

🇬🇧UK

Not approved by the MHRA as a medicinal product.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

Community Insights

Community Insights

Publications per Year

50 total
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Pricing

Price Comparison

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Mechanism

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Mechanism

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Legal Disclaimer

This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer