1. What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It has been studied for its role in tissue remodeling, antioxidant defense, and support of extracellular matrix regulation. By binding copper (Cu²⁺), GHK-Cu may provide bioavailable copper for enzymatic processes relevant to collagen formation and cellular protection.
2. GHK-Cu Structure
Sequence: Gly-His-Lys.Cu.xHAc
Molecular Formula:C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄
Molecular Weight:401.91 g/mol
PubChem CID: 73587
CAS Number: 89030-95-5
3. GHK-Cu Research
Mechanism of Action
l Copper Transport & Activation: GHK-Cu delivers copper to enzymes such as lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and cytochrome c oxidase 【1】.
l Gene Expression Modulation: In vitro studies suggest GHK-Cu influences thousands of genes related to regeneration, inflammation control, and fibrosis.
l ECM Remodeling: GHK-Cu has been observed to stimulate collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and decorin synthesis in research models.
Research Highlights
l Wound Healing: Studied for its ability to accelerate closure in acute and chronic wound models 【2】.
l Skin & Anti-Aging Research: Investigated for improving skin elasticity, reducing photodamage, and modulating MMP activity (J Drugs Dermatol).
l Hair Follicle Studies: Reported to stimulate dermal papilla cells and angiogenesis in research models.
l Neuroprotection: Preclinical models suggest potential in reducing oxidative stress and supporting neuronal function 【3】.
✅ Why Consider GHK-Cu?
l 🧬 Studied as a copper-delivery peptide supporting enzymatic activity
l ✨ Research indicates potential roles in skin elasticity and tissue health
l 🔬 Observed to influence collagen and ECM-related pathways
l 🧠 Investigated for neuroprotective and antioxidant effects in models
l 💇♂️ Studied in hair follicle and scalp vascularization research
l 🩹 Preclinical data highlight its role in wound-healing models
4. Future GHK-Cu Research
A. Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Applications
Topical nanocarriers (liposomes, microneedles) are being tested to enhance dermal penetration, especially in anti-aging and post-laser recovery.
Investigating GHK analogs and peptide cocktails for targeted wrinkle reduction, pigmentation control, and improved skin biomechanics.
B. Regenerative Medicine & Orthopedic Healing
Animal models demonstrate enhanced tendon and cartilage regeneration via local GHK-Cu injection or scaffold integration.
Combining GHK-Cu with hydrogels and collagen-based bio-inks for bioprinting of connective tissues.
C. Neuroprotection & Cognitive Aging
GHK-Cu crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and has been shown to protect neuronal DNA, reduce oxidative stress, and improve memory in rodent Alzheimer’s models (Aging Clin Exp Res).
Future clinical trials aim to test GHK-based neurotherapies for mild cognitive impairment, traumatic brain injury, and neuroinflammation.
D. Oncology Supportive Care
Its anti-inflammatory and angiogenic modulation could assist in mucositis, radiation-induced dermatitis, and cancer cachexia recovery.
E. Epigenetic & Genomic Repair Research
Recent transcriptomics show GHK-Cu reverses senescence-associated gene expression, suggesting it may delay aging at the cellular programming level.
Studies in human fibroblasts report over 30% reversal in senescence markers, promoting interest in cellular reprogramming and bioinformatics-guided peptide design.
5. Application Area
l 🧖 Cosmeceutical Research: High-end formulations under study for skin repair, wrinkle reduction, and post-laser recovery
l 🧬 Wound & Scar Models: Studied in acute, chronic, and surgical wound healing 【4】
l 🧠 Neurocognitive Research: Investigated in models of oxidative stress and memory decline 【5】
l 💇♂️ Hair Follicle Studies: Observed effects on dermal papilla cells and angiogenesis in scalp models
l 🧪 Regenerative Materials: Incorporated experimentally into hydrogels, bio-inks, and connective tissue scaffolds
⚠ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
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.
