GHK-Cu
An endogenous copper-binding tripeptide studied for collagen synthesis, gene expression modulation, and extracellular matrix remodeling.
Overview
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine complexed with Cu2+) is an endogenous tripeptide first isolated from human plasma by Loren Pickart in the 1970s. It is found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, and its plasma concentration declines significantly with age. Research has documented its ability to stimulate collagen Type I and III synthesis in fibroblasts, modulate matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, promote wound healing, deliver copper to antioxidant enzyme systems, and modulate the expression of more than 4,000 human genes in cell-based studies. This breadth of gene expression influence has made GHK-Cu one of the most studied copper peptides in aging and skin biology research.
Quick Reference
- Structure
- Gly-His-Lys complexed with Cu2+
- Origin
- Endogenous human plasma, saliva, and urine
- Primary mechanism
- Copper delivery, collagen synthesis, gene expression modulation
- Gene influence
- More than 4,000 human genes in cell-based studies
- Purity standard
- >=98% by HPLC
How It Works
GHK-Cu delivers Cu2+ ions to copper-dependent enzymes including superoxide dismutase, lysyl oxidase, and ceruloplasmin. It directly stimulates fibroblasts to upregulate collagen Type I and III synthesis and modulates MMP activity to balance extracellular matrix deposition and remodeling. Gene expression studies have documented its influence on pathways related to inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA repair, and tissue remodeling.
Research Highlights
Key findings from the published preclinical literature.
Collagen Synthesis in Fibroblast Models
Pickart et al. and subsequent investigators documented GHK-Cu stimulation of collagen Type I and III synthesis in human fibroblast cultures, with dose-dependent effects on collagen gene expression and protein deposition.
Gene Expression Modulation
Microarray studies published by Pickart and Margolina identified GHK-Cu influence on more than 4,000 human genes in cell culture models, spanning antioxidant defense, DNA repair, inflammatory regulation, and tissue remodeling pathways.
Wound Healing in Preclinical Models
GHK-Cu application in rodent wound models has been associated with accelerated wound closure, improved collagen organization, and enhanced angiogenesis, supporting its study in wound healing and dermal repair research.
Age-Related Plasma Level Decline
Research has documented a 50 to 60 percent decline in circulating GHK-Cu plasma concentrations between ages 20 and 60, which has contributed to its relevance in aging biology and longevity research contexts.
Research Connections
Related research areas, stacks, and comparisons involving this compound.
Research Use Cases
Compound Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
Source This Compound
GHK-Cu is available from Spartan Peptides at a minimum 98% HPLC-verified purity with batch-specific certificate of analysis. Domestic US supply, same-day dispatch before 2 PM EST. For in-vitro research use only.
All compounds are strictly for in-vitro research use only and not intended for human consumption.