GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide GHK. First identified in human plasma in the 1970s, GHK-Cu has since become one of the most extensively studied peptides in anti-aging and regenerative medicine research. Its concentration in plasma declines significantly with age, from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.

Research has revealed that GHK-Cu possesses a remarkable ability to stimulate collagen and decorin production, promote the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, and support the function of dermal fibroblasts. These properties contribute to its well-documented role in skin remodeling, where it has been shown to improve skin elasticity, density, and firmness in controlled studies.

Beyond its effects on skin, GHK-Cu has demonstrated broad biological activity including wound healing acceleration, anti-inflammatory action, and antioxidant defense. Studies have shown it can attract immune cells and endothelial cells to sites of injury, promote angiogenesis, and stimulate nerve outgrowth—making it a versatile compound of interest across multiple fields of biomedical research.

Gene expression studies have revealed that GHK-Cu can modulate the expression of a large number of human genes, including those associated with tissue repair, antioxidant defense, and the suppression of genes linked to tissue destruction. This broad genomic influence underlies many of its observed biological effects and continues to make it a focus of ongoing research.