Le GHK-Cu Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper (GHK-Cu) is a tripeptide naturally present in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Bound to a copper ion (Cu²⁺), it plays a central role in cell regeneration, tissue repair, and antioxidant protection. Discovered in the 1970s by Dr. Loren Pickart, GHK-Cu has been the subject of over 50 years of scientific research, revealing a remarkably broad biological profile. Plasma concentrations of GHK-Cu decline with age—from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to less than 80 ng/mL after age 60—making it a prime subject of study in the field of aging. In in vitro and animal model research, GHK-Cu is being investigated for its potential to stimulate collagen synthesis, activate key growth factors, modulate gene expression, and accelerate wound healing. For research use only. Not intended for human consumption.
Mechanisms of action of GHK-Cu
Activation of collagen synthesis
GHK-Cu is one of the best-documented stimulators of type I, III, and V collagen synthesis. It acts by activating dermal fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing the extracellular matrix. In vitro studies show a 60–70% increase in procollagen production in the presence of nanomolar concentrations of GHK-Cu. Simultaneously, the peptide inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-2) that degrade existing collagen, thus creating a dual protective and building effect.
Activation of VEGF and angiogenesis
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a key factor in neovascularization and oxygen delivery to tissues. GHK-Cu stimulates VEGF expression in fibroblasts and keratinocytes, promoting the formation of new capillaries. This property is particularly studied in the context of chronic wound healing and post-injury tissue repair.
Antioxidant protection
Copper bound to GHK-Cu participates in the activity of superoxide dismutases (SOD), key enzymes in the cellular antioxidant system. The peptide-copper complex neutralizes free radicals and reduces oxidative DNA damage. Transcriptomic studies have shown that GHK-Cu modulates the expression of more than 4,000 human genes, a large proportion of which are linked to the oxidative stress response and inflammation.
Hair regeneration and hair follicles
In hair research models, GHK-Cu has demonstrated its ability to prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair follicle cycle. It stimulates the proliferation of dermal papilla cells, increases the size of hair follicles, and reduces keratinocyte apoptosis. These effects are attributed to the combined activation of FGF-7 (keratinocyte growth factor) and VEGF.
Search applications
Skin and anti-aging research
GHK-Cu is one of the most studied peptides in the field of skin biology. Research published in journals such as Journal of Investigative Dermatology et Skin Pharmacology and Physiology They document its effects on dermal thickening, increased collagen density, wrinkle reduction, and improved skin elasticity in in vitro and ex vivo models. Its multi-target mechanism of action—collagen, elastin, VEGF, glycosaminoglycans—makes it a prime candidate for studies on skin senescence.
Tissue repair and healing
In animal models of excisional wound healing, GHK-Cu significantly accelerated wound closure, increased local neovascularization, and improved the histological quality of newly formed tissue. Studies in skin burn and diabetic wound models show improved tensile strength of scar tissue and a reduction in inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α).
Hair research
Murine models of alopecia treated with copper-based GHK exhibit measurable follicular densification and an accelerated anagen phase as early as 4 weeks. Comparison with vehicle controls shows a statistically significant increase in hair shaft diameter and the active/inactive follicle ratio. These data fuel interest in GHK-Cu for research on pathologies related to hair loss.
Neuroprotection and systemic inflammation
Recent work explores the role of GHK-Cu in modulating the expression of genes linked to neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Bioinformatic analyses on public datasets (GEO) show that GHK-Cu could negatively regulate several pro-inflammatory signaling pathways (NF-κB, MAPK), opening avenues for preclinical studies in models of chronic diseases.
GHK-Cu Research Guides
To deepen your knowledge of GHK-Cu and repair peptides:
- ► GHK-Cu: the copper peptide and its effects — Complete analysis of available clinical and preclinical studies on GHK-Cu.
- ► GHK-Cu vs BPC-157 — Detailed comparison of the two most studied repair peptides: action profiles, tissue targets and research protocols.
- ► Repair peptides: a complete guide — Overview of repair peptides: BPC-157, GHK-Cu, TB-500 and their cross-applications.
GHK-Cu available from MyPeptide
MyPeptide offers the GHK-Cu lyophilized 50 mg, synthesized by HPLC with purity ≥ 98%, accompanied by a certificate of analysis (CoA). Packaged under an inert atmosphere to guarantee optimal stability of the peptide until receipt.
For research use only. Not intended for human consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions about GHK-Cu
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a tripeptide naturally present in human plasma, bound to a copper ion. It is involved in cell regeneration, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. Its concentration decreases with age, making it a key marker and subject of study in research on biological aging.
What are the effects of GHK-Cu on the skin?
Studies show that GHK-Cu stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, activates VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), reduces inflammation, and accelerates skin healing. In vitro models, a 60–70% increase in procollagen production is observed, along with an inhibition of MMPs (metalloproteinases) that degrade existing collagen.
GHK-Cu vs BPC-157: Which one to choose for research?
GHK-Cu is preferred for research on skin, hair, and skin aging. BPC-157 is more frequently studied for musculotendinous and gastrointestinal repair. Both have complementary tissue repair profiles. The choice depends on the target tissue of the study: skin/capillary → GHK-Cu; musculotendinous/visceral → BPC-157.
How is freeze-dried GHK-Cu stored?
Lyophilized GHK-Cu should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store at +4°C and use within 4 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles, which can degrade the peptide. The product must remain in a white powder form until use.
Is GHK-Cu authorized for human consumption?
MyPeptide offers GHK-Cu exclusively for in vitro or animal research. It is not authorized for human consumption in our product range. In accordance with European regulations, our peptides are sold only to qualified researchers and professionals for laboratory use.