GHK-Cu

Overview

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified in human plasma by Loren Pickart in 1973. Plasma levels of GHK-Cu decline with age, correlating with reduced regenerative capacity. It is one of the most extensively studied peptides in cosmetic and dermatological research, with over 100 published studies documenting its effects on collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory pathways, and gene expression modulation. GHK-Cu has been shown to regulate the expression of over 4,000 human genes.

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu acts as a biological signal that reprograms cellular gene expression patterns. It stimulates collagen type I and III synthesis by dermal fibroblasts, upregulates decorin (a proteoglycan that regulates collagen fibre assembly), and suppresses excessive TGF-β signalling that leads to scarring. The copper ion serves as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme responsible for collagen and elastin cross-linking. Additionally, GHK-Cu attracts immune cells to injury sites via chemotactic signalling and promotes angiogenesis through VEGF and FGF-2 upregulation.

Research Applications

• Collagen synthesis and dermal remodelling studies
• Wound healing and tissue repair research
• Gene expression modulation and genomics research
• Anti-ageing mechanism investigation
• Antioxidant defence and SOD/GPx induction studies