GHK-CU
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Research Use Only
These products are for laboratory research only and not intended for medical use. They are not FDA-approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. By purchasing, you certify they will be used solely for research and not for human or animal consumption.
Research Summary
24 PubMed CitationsOverview GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring tripeptide complex consisting of the amino acids Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine chelated to a copper(II) ion. First isolated from human plasma albumin in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart at UCSF.[1] Origin: GHK is an endogenous peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It is released from the extracellular matrix during tissue injury — specifically cleaved from SPARC (Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine) and the alpha 2(I) chain of type I collagen.[2] Age-related decline: Plasma concentration declines from approximately 200 ng/mL (10⁻⁷ M) at age 20 to roughly 80 ng/mL by age 60. This decline correlates with reduced tissue regeneration capacity.[2][3] Structurally, GHK-Cu features a Cu(II) ion coordinated in a distorted square-planar pyramid by four nitrogen atoms: the amino-N of glycine, the amide-N of the Gly-His peptide bond, the imidazole-N of histidine, and an oxygen from water or a carboxyl group. The complex...
GHK-CU — Research Data at a Glance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| PubMed Citations Referenced | 24 |
| Contributing Researchers | 3 |
| Storage Conditions | Lyophilized powder at -20°C (up to 3 years). |
| Purity Standard | ≥99% (HPLC verified, 3rd-party COA) |
| Research Use Only | Not for human consumption. RUO only. |
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Overview
Overview
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring tripeptide complex consisting of the amino acids Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine chelated to a copper(II) ion. First isolated from human plasma albumin in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart at UCSF.[1]
Origin: GHK is an endogenous peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It is released from the extracellular matrix during tissue injury — specifically cleaved from SPARC (Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine) and the alpha 2(I) chain of type I collagen.[2]
Age-related decline: Plasma concentration declines from approximately 200 ng/mL (10⁻⁷ M) at age 20 to roughly 80 ng/mL by age 60. This decline correlates with reduced tissue regeneration capacity.[2][3]
Structurally, GHK-Cu features a Cu(II) ion coordinated in a distorted square-planar pyramid by four nitrogen atoms: the amino-N of glycine, the amide-N of the Gly-His peptide bond, the imidazole-N of histidine, and an oxygen from water or a carboxyl group. The complex has a characteristic blue-purple color and a molecular weight of ~401.9 Da.[1]
GHK-Cu functions as a safe copper delivery vehicle by "redox silencing" the Cu(II) ion — preventing Fenton reaction toxicity that free copper would cause. Its binding constant (pKa 16.44) is similar to albumin's copper transport site (log₁₀ = 16.2), allowing GHK to exchange copper with albumin for intracellular delivery.[3]
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of Action
Copper Transport & "Redox Silencing"
GHK-Cu acts as a carrier peptide with high affinity for copper(II) ions (pKa = 16.44). The complex "silences" copper's redox activity, preventing Fenton reaction damage while delivering copper safely into cells — essential for enzymes like lysyl oxidase (collagen crosslinking) and superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense).[3]
Key Signaling Pathways
| Pathway | Mechanism | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| NF-κB/p38 MAPK | Inhibits phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and p38 MAPK | Blocks nuclear translocation → suppresses TNF-α, IL-6 (Park et al., 2016)[4] |
| Nrf2/Keap1 | Promotes Nrf2 dissociation from Keap1 → nuclear translocation | HO-1 transcription → antioxidant defense (Zhang et al., 2022)[5] |
| SIRT1/STAT3 | Upregulates SIRT1 → deacetylates STAT3 → suppresses RORγt | Reduces Th17 inflammation; ↑ ZO-1/Occludin tight junctions (Mao et al., 2025)[6] |
| TGF-β | Context-dependent modulation | Restores in COPD lungs (Campbell et al., 2012); suppresses in scarring/fibrosis[7] |
Ferritin Iron Blockade
GHK-Cu binds to ferritin channels → prevents Fe(II) release → reduces iron-catalyzed lipid peroxidation by 87% (Miller et al., 1990).[8]
Gene Modulation
GHK-Cu induces >50% change in expression of 31.2% of human genes. It resets gene expression to a "younger/healthier" state — suppressing inflammatory and metastatic genes while activating repair and remodeling genes. Analysis via the Broad Institute Connectivity Map confirmed GHK modulates >4,000 genes.[2][9]
ECM Synthesis
Stimulates Collagen I/III, elastin, GAGs, and decorin; modulates MMPs and TIMPs for balanced tissue remodeling.[10]
Anti-Cancer Activity
Reactivates apoptosis (caspases 3/7) in neuroblastoma, leukemia, and breast cancer cell lines. Reverses 70% of 54 metastasis genes in colon cancer via Connectivity Map analysis.[9]
Dose-Response: Biphasic
Collagen synthesis stimulation begins at 10⁻¹² M, peaks at 10⁻⁹ M (1 nanomolar), and disappears at higher concentrations. Systemic wound healing in animals at ~1.1 mg/kg — far below the toxic threshold (LD50 estimated ~23,000 mg in 70 kg human).[10][3]
GHK vs. GHK-Cu
| Form | Key Difference |
|---|---|
| GHK (peptide alone) | Some efficacy (quenches lipid peroxidation by-products); copper complex required for most wound healing/gene effects |
| GHK-Cu | Full regenerative profile; "redox silences" copper for safe delivery; strong chelators abolish effects |
| HGK:Cu (analog) | SOD-mimetic activity 223-fold higher than native GHK-Cu |
Research Applications
Research Applications
GHK-Cu research spans dermatology, wound healing, pulmonology, oncology, and neuroscience across 10+ indication categories:
- Wound Healing & Tissue Regeneration — Accelerates contraction, re-epithelialization, collagen accumulation; reduces TNF-α and MMPs. 64.5% wound size reduction vs 28.2% control (Canapp et al., 2003).[11]
- Dermatology & Anti-Aging — Tightens skin, improves elasticity/density/thickness; reduces wrinkles 55%; outperforms Vitamin C and retinoic acid for collagen production (70% vs 50% vs 40%).[12]
- Hair Growth Stimulation — Enlarges follicle size, prolongs anagen phase; comparable to 5% minoxidil. MDCT approach: SALT score 40%→7.5%.[13]
- COPD/Emphysema — Reverses emphysematous gene expression; restores TGF-β pathway in lung fibroblasts.[7]
- Anti-Cancer & Metastasis Suppression — Connectivity Map identifies GHK as reverser of metastatic colon cancer gene signature; reactivates apoptosis in neuroblastoma/leukemia/breast cancer.[9]
- DNA Repair & Radiation Recovery — Restores replicative vitality to irradiated fibroblasts; ↑ bFGF, VEGF.[14]
- Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory — Neutralizes acrolein/4-HNE; blocks ferritin iron release (87% ↓ lipid peroxidation); suppresses NF-κB.[8]
- Neuroprotection — Promotes nerve outgrowth; ↑ NGF, NT-3, NT-4; reduces anxiety/pain/aggression at 0.5 µg/kg.[15]
- Bone Regeneration — Promotes reparative osteogenesis in fracture models at 0.5 µg/kg.[16]
- Gastrointestinal Healing — 60% reduction in IBD severity (n=16); ulcerative colitis relief via SIRT1/STAT3 pathway.[6]
Biochemical Characteristics
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | ~401.9 Da |
| CAS Number | 89030-95-5 |
| PubChem CID | 378611 |
| Sequence (1-Letter) | GHK |
| Sequence (3-Letter) | Gly-His-Lys |
| Structure | Linear tripeptide chelated to Cu(II) in distorted square-planar pyramid; blue-purple crystal powder |
| InChI Key | DIWZQABMLHSNJR-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | C1=C(NC=N1)CC(C(=O)NC(CCCCN)C(=O)O)NC(=O)CN.[Cu] |
| Origin | Endogenous — human plasma, cleaved from SPARC and type I collagen α2 chain |
| Classification | Copper Peptide Complex / Cosmeceutical / Research Peptide |
| Appearance | Blue-purple crystal powder (GHK without copper is white) |
Identifiers
| Purity Standard | |
|---|---|
| Identity Confirmation | |
| Counter-Ion | |
| Detection Methods |
Preclinical Research Summary
Preclinical Research Summary
Key Preclinical Studies
| Study | Model | Key Findings | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canapp et al. (2003) | Rats — ischemic open wounds, topical daily × 13d | Wound size ↓ 64.5% vs 28.2% control; ↓ TNF-α, MMP-2, MMP-9 | [11] |
| Maquart et al. (1993) | Sprague-Dawley rats — wound chambers | Dose-dependent ↑ Collagen I/III, GAGs, DNA content (days 3–14) | [10] |
| Zhang et al. (2022) | C57BL/6J mice — CS-induced emphysema, 0.2–20 µg/g/day IP × 12 wk | Significantly ↓ airspace enlargement; reversed MMP-9/TIMP-1 imbalance; Nrf2/Keap1 activation | [5] |
| Mao et al. (2025) | BALB/c mice — DSS-induced colitis, 20 mg/kg oral × 14d | ↓ DAI score; mitigated colon shortening; SIRT1/STAT3 mechanism; ↑ ZO-1/Occludin | [6] |
| Dou et al. (2020) | 28-month-old C57BL/6 mice — 10 mg/kg 5x/wk × 3 wk | Significantly faster maze completion; ↓ inflammation; ↑ histone deacetylase 2 | [15] |
| Bobyntsev et al. (2015) | Rats — 0.5 µg/kg IP | Analgesic, anxiolytic effects; aggression reduced 5-fold | [15] |
| Gul et al. (2008) | Rabbits — full-thickness wounds × 21–28d | Faster granulation, improved contraction, increased neovascularization | [17] |
| Cherdakov et al. (2010) | Rats — bone fractures, 0.5 µg/kg IP × 10d | Marked ↑ reparative osteogenesis; ↑ antioxidant activity | [16] |
Clinical / Human Studies
| Study | Population | Key Results | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photoaged Skin (12-wk) | n=71 women | Significantly improved laxity, clarity, firmness; ↓ fine lines and wrinkles; ↑ skin density/thickness | [12] |
| vs. Vitamin C & Retinoic Acid | n=20 women | GHK-Cu ↑ collagen in 70% vs 50% (Vit C) and 40% (retinoic acid) | [12] |
| Periorbital Wrinkles (12-wk) | n=41 women | Wrinkles reduced 55%; outperformed placebo and Vitamin K cream | [12] |
| Nano-Lipid Carrier (RCT, 8-wk) | Female volunteers | Wrinkle volume ↓ 55.8%, depth ↓ 32.8% vs control; 31.6% ↓ vs Matrixyl® 3000 | [18] |
| Skin Hydration (8-wk) | n=30 | 20% increase in hydration; improved epidermal/dermal thickness | [18] |
| Hair Loss — MDCT | n=7 men | SALT score 40%→7.5%; 71.4% achieved TSAR >10%; median TSAR 26.5% | [13] |
| IBD (12-wk) | n=16 | Rectal GHK-Cu; 60% reduction in disease severity | [2] |
Safety Summary
| Parameter | Finding |
|---|---|
| General Safety | Excellent safety record; non-toxic and non-irritating; decades of cosmetic use without adverse issues |
| LD50 | Estimated equivalent to ~23,000 mg in 70 kg human (blood pressure effects); exceptionally safe |
| Common Side Effects | Temporary redness, itching, burning, or stinging at application site (mild) |
| Contraindications | Wilson's disease (copper metabolism disorder); pregnancy/breastfeeding (no safety data); active cancer (theoretical angiogenic concern) |
| Drug Interactions | Do not use with Vitamin C simultaneously (copper dissociation); avoid EDTA/carnosine (chelation strips copper); space retinoids/AHAs |
| Half-Life | ~0.5–1 hour in plasma; susceptible to carboxypeptidase degradation |
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
For Laboratory Research Only. Not for human use, medical use, diagnostic use, or veterinary use.
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
Authors & Attribution
✍️ Article Author
Dr. Loren Pickart, PhD (1938–2023)
Loren Pickart, PhD, was a biochemist at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and the discoverer of GHK-Cu. He isolated GHK from human plasma albumin in 1973 and identified its ability to make old liver tissue synthesize younger protein profiles. He founded ProCyte Corporation (1985–1991) and Skin Biology, Inc. to commercialize copper peptide products. In later years, he used the Broad Institute Connectivity Map to demonstrate GHK modulates >4,000 human genes. Key publications: 'Tripeptide in human serum which prolongs survival of normal liver cells' (1973), 'Growth-modulating plasma tripeptide may function by facilitating copper uptake into cells' (1980, Nature), 'The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling' (2008), 'GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration' (2015), 'Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide' (2018). Loren Pickart is referenced as the foundational scientist in GHK-Cu research. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Pure US Peptide and this doctor.
View Full Researcher Profile →🎓 Scientific Journal Author
Dr. François-Xavier Maquart
François-Xavier Maquart is a researcher/professor at the Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Reims, France, collaborating with Jacques-Paul Borel. His group conducted foundational studies in the 1980s–1990s establishing that GHK-Cu at nanomolar concentrations stimulates collagen, dermatan sulfate, and decorin synthesis. He demonstrated that GHK-Cu modulates metalloproteinases and TIMPs for balanced tissue remodeling, and proved the copper-binding activity is essential for regenerative effects. Key publications: 'Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by GHK-Cu²⁺' (1988, FEBS Letters), 'In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by GHK-Cu²⁺' (1993), 'GHK-Cu²⁺ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression' (2000). François-Xavier Maquart is referenced as a leading scientist in GHK-Cu research. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Pure US Peptide and this doctor.
View Full Researcher Profile →Dr. François-Xavier Maquart is being referenced as one of the leading scientists involved in the research and development of GHK-CU. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Pure US Peptide and this doctor. The purpose of citing the doctor is to acknowledge, recognize, and credit the exhaustive research and development efforts conducted by the scientists studying this peptide.
🔬 Contributing Researcher
Dr. Anna Margolina, PhD
Anna Margolina, PhD, worked in the Research & Development Department of Skin Biology, Inc. A long-time collaborator with Dr. Pickart, she was instrumental in analyzing GHK's effects on gene expression. Her research focuses on GHK's potential to reverse epigenetic changes associated with aging, cancer metastasis, and COPD. Key publications: 'GHK-Cu may Prevent Oxidative Stress in Skin' (2015, Cosmetics), 'GHK and DNA: Resetting the Human Genome to Health' (2014), 'The Human Tripeptide GHK-Cu in Prevention of Oxidative Stress and Degenerative Conditions of Aging' (2012). Anna Margolina is referenced as a key scientist in GHK-Cu research. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Pure US Peptide and this doctor.
View Full Researcher Profile →Dr. Anna Margolina, PhD is being referenced as one of the leading scientists involved in the research and development of GHK-CU. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Pure US Peptide and this doctor. The purpose of citing the doctor is to acknowledge, recognize, and credit the exhaustive research and development efforts conducted by the scientists studying this peptide.
Referenced Citations
Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK-Cu may Prevent Oxidative Stress in Skin by Regulating Copper and Modifying Expression of Numerous Antioxidant Genes. Cosmetics. 2015;2(3):236-247.
DOIPickart L. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition. 2008;19(8):969-988.
DOIPickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018;19(7):1987.
DOIPark JR, Lee H, Kim SI, Yang SR. The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice. Oncotarget. 2016;7(36):58405-58417.
DOIZhang Q, Yan L, Lu J, Zhou X. Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ attenuates cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary emphysema and inflammation by reducing oxidative stress pathway. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences. 2022;9:925700.
DOIMao S, Huang J, Li J, et al. Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2025;16:1551843.
DOICampbell JD, McDonough JE, Zeskind JE, et al. A gene expression signature of emphysema-related lung destruction and its reversal by the tripeptide GHK. Genome Medicine. 2012;4(8):67.
DOIMiller DM, DeSilva D, Pickart L, Aust SD. Effects of glycyl-histidyl-lysyl chelated Cu(II) on ferritin dependent lipid peroxidation. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. 1990;264:79-84.
PubMedPickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK and DNA: Resetting the human genome to health. BioMed Research International. 2014;2014:151479.
DOIMaquart FX, Pickart L, Laurent M, et al. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. FEBS Letters. 1988;238(2):343-346.
DOICanapp SO Jr, Farese JP, Schultz GS, et al. The effect of topical tripeptide-copper complex on healing of ischemic open wounds. Veterinary Surgery. 2003;32(6):515-523.
DOIAbdulghani AA, Sherr A, Shirin S, et al. Effects of topical creams containing vitamin C, a copper-binding peptide cream and melatonin compared with tretinoin on the ultrastructure of normal skin. Disease Management and Clinical Outcomes. 1998;1(4):136-141.
PubMedKuceki G, Coppinger AJ, Ragi SD, et al. Enhanced hair regrowth with five monthly sessions of minoxidil-dutasteride-copper peptides tattooing for androgenetic alopecia. JAAD International. 2025;20:38-40.
DOIPollard JD, Quan S, Kang T, Koch RJ. Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts. Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery. 2005;7(1):27-31.
DOIDou Y, Lee A, Zhu L, et al. The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide. Aging Pathobiology and Therapeutics. 2020;2(1):58-61.
DOICherdakov VYu, et al. Peptide combination (GHK, Dalargin, Thymogen) promotes reparative osteogenesis in rats with bone fractures. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2010.
PubMedGul NY, Topal A, Cangul IT, Yanik K. The effects of topical tripeptide copper complex and helium-neon laser on wound healing in rabbits. Veterinary Dermatology. 2008;19(1):7-14.
DOIBadenhorst T, Svirskis D, Merrilees M, et al. Effects of GHK-Cu on MMP and TIMP Expression, Collagen and Elastin Production, and Facial Wrinkle Parameters. Journal of Aging Science. 2016;4(3):166.
DOIPickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. BioMed Research International. 2015;2015:648108.
DOIHong Y, Downey T, Eu KW, et al. A 'metastasis-prone' signature for early-stage mismatch-repair proficient sporadic colorectal cancer patients and its implications for possible therapeutics. Clinical & Experimental Metastasis. 2010;27(2):83-90.
DOIPickart L, Freedman JH, Loker WJ, et al. Growth-modulating plasma tripeptide may function by facilitating copper uptake into cells. Nature. 1980;288(5792):715-717.
DOISimeon A, Emonard H, Hornebeck W, Maquart FX. The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures. Life Sciences. 2000;67(18):2257-2265.
DOIKang YA, Choi HR, Na JI, et al. Copper-GHK increases integrin expression and p63 positivity by keratinocytes. Archives of Dermatological Research. 2009;301(4):301-306.
DOIPickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, et al. The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression Relevant to Nervous System Function and Cognitive Decline. Brain Sciences. 2017;7(2):20.
DOIRUO Disclaimer
For Research Use Only (RUO). This product is intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory experimentation. It is not a drug, food, cosmetic, or medical device and has not been approved by the FDA for any human or veterinary use. It must not be used for therapeutic, diagnostic, or any other non-research purpose. Pure US Peptide does not condone or encourage the use of this product for anything other than strictly defined research applications. Users assume full responsibility for compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Every batch is strictly tested by accredited third-party laboratories (ISO 17025) to ensure 99%+ purity.
Latest Lab Report
Storage & Handling
Summary
Lyophilized powder at -20°C (up to 3 years). Reconstituted at -80°C (1 year) or 4°C (short-term). Stable pH 5.0–7.0; dissociates below pH 4 or above pH 9. Keep from moisture under inert gas.
Recommended Laboratory Storage Conditions
Lyophilized Powder: Store in a freezer at or below -20°C for long-term stability (up to 3 years). Blue-purple crystal powder appearance.
Reconstituted Solutions: Store at -80°C for up to 1 year; 4°C for shorter periods. Keep away from moisture under inert gas (N₂ or Argon).
pH Stability: Stable in the range of pH 5.0–7.0. May dissociate and release free copper below pH 4 or above pH 9.
Incompatibilities: Do not mix with strong oxidants, chelating agents (EDTA, carnosine), or Vitamin C — apply at different times.
Purity: ≥98–99% by HPLC; identity by mass spectrometry (~401.9 Da); TFA-free for biological applications.
Handling: Allow vials to warm to room temperature before opening to prevent moisture condensation. Hygroscopic material.
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