GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide Complex (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Cu²⁺)
Half-life: ~30 min (plasma)
Research Profile
Relative research assessments — educational reference only.
Target Receptors
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GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring endogenous peptide. Copper accumulation risk is theoretical at supranormal doses. Monitor copper/zinc balance in chronic research protocols.
"A naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma levels decline sharply with age. Extensively studied for collagen induction, skin remodeling, and gene expression regulation."
Full Description
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) complexed with copper (Cu²⁺). It is found in human plasma at ~200 ng/mL at age 20, declining to ~80 ng/mL by age 60. GHK has a high affinity for copper (Kd ~10⁻¹⁴ M). It promotes collagen synthesis, upregulates antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase), activates skin fibroblasts, and stimulates VEGF-driven angiogenesis. Gene expression analysis shows GHK-Cu modulates over 4,000 human genes, including upregulation of anti-aging and tissue repair pathways and downregulation of inflammation and cancer-associated genes.
Mechanism of Action
Cu²⁺ chaperone and wound healing signal. Activates fibroblasts, upregulates collagen I, III, and IV synthesis; stimulates VEGF and FGF-7; activates superoxide dismutase; modulates TGF-β signaling.
Reported Benefits
- • Modulates over 4,000 human genes toward tissue repair/anti-aging profile
- • Stimulates collagen I, III, IV and elastin synthesis
- • Upregulates antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase)
- • Anti-inflammatory via downregulation of NF-κB and TGF-β pathways
Potential Side Effects
- • Copper overload risk with excessive dosing (rare)
- • Topical irritation in some skin types
- • Minor stinging upon injection
- • Temporary blue-green discoloration at injection site (copper deposition)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does GHK-Cu work differently from cosmetic skincare peptides?▼
Why does copper matter in this peptide?▼
What does the gene expression data mean?▼
For Research Reference Only
Not medical advice. Peptides may be regulated or restricted in your jurisdiction.
References
- 1.A Torilis japonica Extract-GHK-Cu Complex Attenuates Th2 Cytokines and Promotes Keratinocyte Recovery: A Potential Antioxidant Strategy for Atopic Dermatitis. PubMed (2026). Jeon S, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42510549/ ↑
- 2.Middle-aged mice treated with GHK-Cu peptide administered intraperitoneally or intranasally show behavioral rescue but divergent hippocampal aging programs. PubMed (2026). Mazzola J, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42245779/ ↑
- 3.The GHK-Cu delays aging in Caenorhabditis elegans via coordinated regulation of mitochondrial function and activation of DAF-16/SKN-1 pathways. PubMed (2026). Wen H, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42084774/ ↑
- 4.The Laccase-like Property of GHK-Cu and Its Applications in Colorimetric Sensing of Phenolic Compounds. PubMed (2026). Chen JS, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42041438/ ↑
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