GHK-Cu

Overview

GHK-Cu (copper peptide GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first identified in human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973. The tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine has a strong affinity for copper(II) ions and is found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with plasma concentrations declining with age. GHK-Cu has been the subject of extensive published research spanning over four decades, with studies investigating its effects on wound healing, skin remodeling, anti-inflammatory responses, and gene expression modulation. Gene profiling studies have identified over 4,000 genes whose expression is modulated by GHK-Cu, many involved in tissue repair and regeneration pathways.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Mechanism of Action

Published research describes GHK-Cu as modulating gene expression through pathways involving transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and multiple matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The copper complex facilitates delivery of copper(II) ions to cells, which is essential for numerous enzymatic processes including superoxide dismutase activity, lysyl oxidase-mediated collagen cross-linking, and cytochrome c oxidase function. Studies have described stimulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis, increased decorin production, and modulation of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine expression. The peptide's effects on DNA repair gene expression have been documented in microarray studies.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Key Research Areas

• Wound healing and tissue remodeling in animal and in vitro models
• Collagen and elastin synthesis stimulation in dermal fibroblasts
• Anti-inflammatory gene expression modulation
• Antioxidant enzyme upregulation (SOD, glutathione pathways)
• Hair follicle enlargement and growth cycle modulation
• DNA repair gene activation in gene expression studies
• Bone tissue regeneration and osteoblast differentiation

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Published Studies (7 cited)

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Dosage in Published Research

In published studies, GHK-Cu has been investigated in various formulations and concentrations. Topical applications in wound healing studies typically used 0.5–2.0 μg/cm² concentrations. In vitro studies have employed concentrations ranging from 1 nM to 10 μM. Injectable formulations in animal studies have used doses in the range of 0.5–10 mg/kg. All dosing information is from published literature only.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Storage & Handling

Store lyophilized GHK-Cu at -20°C protected from light and moisture. The copper complex is photosensitive. Reconstituted solutions should be stored at 2–8°C and used within 7 days. Use sterile technique during handling.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Safety Profile (Literature Only)

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring compound in human plasma. Published toxicology studies have not reported significant adverse effects at concentrations studied. The peptide has been used in wound care and cosmetic formulations in applied settings. No adverse effects have been reported in published preclinical studies at investigated doses. This compound is sold for laboratory research use only.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption