GHK-Cu (Copper) Peptide

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide made up of three amino acids: glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. The “-Cu” denotes its copper-binding property. Found in human plasma, GHK-Cu levels naturally decline with age—from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This small peptide is released during tissue injury and is linked to wound repair and regenerative processes.

Overview

Research suggests GHK-Cu may influence gene expression, potentially “resetting” damaged or aged cells. Its possible effects include:

• Supporting skin structure, tightening, and reversing thinning
• Improving skin texture, reducing hyperpigmentation, and restoring the skin barrier
• Stimulating tissue repair and moderating inflammation
• Increasing hair follicle size and promoting hair growth
• Acting as an antioxidant and influencing cellular gene regulation

Chemical Makeup

• Molecular Formula: C14H23CuN6O4
• Molecular Weight: 340.38 g/mol
• Other Titles: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper 2+

Initial Research
Studies in the 1980s suggested that GHK peptide plays a key role in tissue repair. In dermal injury models, the peptide binds copper ions and stimulates collagen synthesis. It also appears to increase DNA and total protein accumulation at injury sites. Later research indicated that GHK-Cu may promote decorin protein production, crucial for collagen formation, wound healing, and anti-tumor activity. Subsequent studies showed it could enhance tissue inhibitor proteins TIMP-1 and TIMP-2.

GHK-Cu and Tissue Repair

Animal studies further confirmed its regenerative potential. In one experiment, 18 New Zealand white rabbits with induced wounds were treated with GHK-Cu, zinc oxide, or placebo. After 21 days, wounds treated with GHK-Cu showed faster and more complete healing.

Another study compared GHK-Cu to helium-neon laser treatment in 24 rabbits over 28 days. The GHK-Cu group, especially with higher laser concentrations, showed enhanced wound repair, including reduced neutrophil counts and increased neovascularization, indicating improved tissue regeneration.

GHK-Cu’s ability to combine copper delivery with gene expression modulation positions it as a powerful peptide for skin, tissue repair, and regenerative research.