GHK-Cu Copper Peptide Research Hub
GHK-Cu copper peptide research — collagen synthesis, skin remodeling, wound healing acceleration, antioxidant activity, hair growth, and gene expression modulation studies with citations.
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In-depth research profiles with mechanisms of action, key findings, and peer-reviewed citations.
Copper Peptide GHK-Cu
Also known as: GHK-Cu, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper(II), Copper Tripeptide-1, Linus Pauling Peptide
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified in human plasma by Loren Pickart in 1973. It is found in blood, saliva, and urine, with plasma levels declining from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. The copper ion is essential for its biological activity, as it enables the peptide to serve as a bioavailable copper delivery system. GHK-Cu exerts its biolog...
Quick Facts
Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (with Cu2+ ion)
MW: 403.93 g/mol (copper complex)
CAS: 49557-75-7
Store lyophilized powder at -20C, protected from light. The copper complex is stable but can oxidize; minimize exposure ...
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Read ArticleResearch Applications
Key research categories and applications studied in the scientific literature.
Skin & Soft Tissue
Known as a potent, naturally occurring peptide that boosts collagen, enhances firmness, and accelerates wound healing — the gold standard for skin remodeling research.
Anti-Aging & Longevity
A potent repairing peptide that increases collagen production, improves skin elasticity, and reduces inflammation, promoting both aesthetic and systemic healing in aging research.
Recovery & Healing
Excellent for wound healing, skin remodeling, and decreasing inflammation — supporting tissue repair research across multiple organ systems.
Immune Support
Supports immune balance, reduces inflammation, and facilitates wound healing through modulation of gene expression in over 4,000 human genes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ghk-cu research research, purity standards, and sourcing.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper(II)) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It declines with age and is studied for its roles in collagen synthesis, wound healing, anti-inflammatory activity, and gene expression modulation.
What does GHK-Cu research show?
Research shows GHK-Cu stimulates collagen types I, III, and V synthesis, promotes decorin production, attracts immune cells to wound sites, and modulates over 4,000 human genes — many involved in tissue repair and anti-inflammatory pathways.
How is GHK-Cu used in research?
GHK-Cu is studied in topical formulations for skin remodeling research, injectable formulations for systemic wound healing studies, and in vitro cell culture models for gene expression and signaling pathway analysis.
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