Class
Naturally Occurring Copper-Binding Tripeptide
Molecular Weight
340.4 Da (free); ~403 Da (copper complex)
Half-life
Hours (topical and systemic)
Purity
≥98% (HPLC)
Form
Lyophilized powder (copper complex)
Storage
Lyophilized: −20°C, protect from light
Reconstitution
Sterile water or saline
Mechanism of action
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in 1973. The copper(II) complex activates a remarkably broad range of biological responses including upregulation of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis by fibroblasts; activation of MMP remodeling enzymes; promotion of angiogenesis via VEGF and FGF upregulation; anti-inflammatory activity via TNF-α and IL-1β reduction; antioxidant effects via SOD induction; and gene regulation — research shows modulation of over 4,000 genes.
⚠️ For Research Use Only — described exclusively for in vitro and laboratory research by qualified researchers. Not for human or veterinary use. Informational only; does not constitute medical advice or imply efficacy in humans.
Research highlights
4,000+
Genes modulated (Landes et al. gene array studies)
↑ Collagen
Type I/III collagen synthesis in fibroblast models
Hair
Follicle size and proliferation in mouse models
Rejuvenation
Reverses aging gene expression signature in fibroblasts
Research notes
- Skin rejuvenation: Multiple in vitro and clinical studies demonstrating collagen synthesis stimulation, wrinkle reduction, and improved skin density.
- Wound healing: Accelerated wound closure and reduced scar tissue in both surgical and chronic wound models.
- Hair research: Stimulation of follicle proliferation and size in mouse models; effects compared to pharmaceutical agents in some studies.
- Gene expression reset: Landes et al. showed GHK-Cu reverses gene expression signature of aged human fibroblasts toward a younger phenotype.
- Broad anti-inflammatory: Downregulates TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines in tissue models.
