Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Copper (GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring copper peptide that has attracted significant attention in scientific research due to its regenerative and protective actions across multiple biological systems. Originally identified in human plasma and later found in saliva and urine, this tripeptide copper complex functions as a natural modulator in various physiological processes. GHK is produced in higher concentrations in young, healthy plasma, with levels declining with age.

GHK-Cu is composed of three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine, bound to a copper ion. This unique sequence enables it to bind copper efficiently, facilitating delivery to tissues where it can influence processes such as collagen synthesis, wound healing, angiogenesis, and gene expression. Animal studies indicate GHK-Cu supports wound healing by activating fibroblasts and promoting angiogenesis and collagen production.

 

The Structure and Chemistry of GHK-Cu

• – Chemical Formula: C14H24N6O4Cu
• – Molar Mass: 340.8 g/mol
• – IUPAC Name: (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine)copper(II)
• – Synonyms: Copper Tripeptide, GHK-Copper Peptide
• – Origin: First isolated from human plasma in the 1970s

 

The copper ion in GHK-Cu is in the +2 oxidation state, forming a stable complex that resists rapid degradation. This stability is essential for its bioactivity in both topical and in vitro research settings.

 

GHK-Cu as a Natural Modulator

GHK-Cu operates as a copper switch, regulating the availability of copper ions in tissue environments. Copper is a cofactor for several essential enzymes, including:

• – Lysyl oxidase – connective tissue cross-linking
• – Superoxide dismutase (SOD) – antioxidant defence
• – Cytochrome c oxidase – cellular energy production

 

By delivering copper to where it is needed, GHK-Cu helps catalyse important biochemical reactions related to tissue repair, blood vessel formation, and skin regeneration.

 

Multiple Cellular Pathways Influenced by GHK-Cu

Research indicates that GHK-Cu impacts several cellular pathways, including:

• – Fibroblast collagen synthesis – enhancing connective tissue formation
• – Keratinocyte migration – aiding epidermal repair
• – Angiogenesis – promoting new blood vessel formation
• – Antioxidant enzyme activation – reducing oxidative stress
• – Proteolytic enzyme regulation – balancing tissue remodelling
• – Gene expression modulation – influencing over 4,000 human genes in vitro

 

These pathways collectively contribute to tissue regeneration in experimental models.

 

Gene Expression and GHK-Cu

One of the most notable areas of GHK-Cu research is its effect on gene expression. Studies reveal that GHK-Cu can upregulate genes associated with repair and regeneration while downregulating those linked to inflammation and tissue degradation. Examples include:

• – Increased expression of collagen and integrin genes
• – Reduced production of inflammatory cytokines
• – Activation of growth-modulating plasma tripeptide signalling pathways

 

This capacity makes GHK-Cu a focus in wound healing and degenerative disease research.

 

GHK-Cu and Wound Healing

Open Wound Healing

Animal experiments have shown that GHK-Cu accelerates dermal wound closure and improves the tensile strength of newly formed tissue. These effects are linked to:

• – Increased fibroblast activity
• – Enhanced collagen deposition
• – Regulation of blood clotting factors

 

Ischemic Wounds

In ischemic open wounds, GHK-Cu has demonstrated the ability to stimulate angiogenesis, restore blood flow, and promote connective tissue formation.

 

GHK-Cu in Skin Repair and Regeneration

Topical application of GHK-Cu in research has been associated with:

• – Improved skin elasticity
• – Reduction of visible signs of ageing
• – Stimulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis
• – Increased skin quality through collagen and elastin production

 

Its ability to regulate antioxidant enzymes contributes to a healthier extracellular matrix in skin research. Additionally, GHK-Cu protects skin cells from UV radiation, further supporting its role in maintaining skin health.

 

Diabetic Wound Healing Research

In diabetic animal models, GHK-Cu has been observed to:

• – Improve tissue repair in compromised healing environments
• – Reduce inflammation and oxidative damage
• – Restore vascular networks in affected areas

 

Connective Tissue Formation and Collagen Production

GHK-Cu enhances fibroblast collagen synthesis in both in vitro and in vivo models. Collagen production is essential for:

• – Tissue remodelling after injury
• – Maintaining skin firmness
• – Supporting ligament and tendon strength

 

Hair Follicle and Scalp Health Research

In hair follicle studies, GHK-Cu has been shown to:

• – Stimulate dormant hair follicles
• – Improve blood circulation to the scalp
• – Support collagen matrix formation around follicles

 

This is particularly relevant in research into male pattern baldness, where follicle miniaturisation is a key concern.

 

Antioxidant Defence and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

By upregulating antioxidant enzymes and downregulating pro-inflammatory mediators, GHK-Cu can reduce oxidative stress in tissue injury models. This helps protect cellular DNA and maintain tissue integrity.

 

How Long Does It Take GHK-Cu to Work?

In laboratory models, changes in gene expression and collagen synthesis have been detected within days of GHK-Cu introduction. Visible tissue regeneration effects in wound models typically appear in 1–2 weeks, depending on the environment and application method.

 

Does GHK-Cu Activate Stem Cells?

While not a stem cell itself, GHK-Cu has been observed to activate pathways that influence stem cell proliferation and differentiation in wound and skin regeneration models. This includes signalling that supports keratinocyte and fibroblast precursors.

 

Is GHK-Cu Safe to Take?

In scientific settings, GHK-Cu has shown low toxicity and good biocompatibility in both animal and cell culture studies. Safety assessments focus on research protocols only. It is not approved for human consumption.

 

What is GHK-Cu Used for in Research?

GHK-Cu is studied for potential roles in:

• – Skin regeneration
• – Wound healing
• – Hair follicle activation
• – Connective tissue strengthening
• – Liver tissue repair
• – Gene expression modulation

 

Product Summary Table

Name	Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu)
Molar Mass	340.8 g/mol
Chemical Formula	C14H24N6O4Cu
IUPAC Name	(glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine)copper(II)
Synonyms	Copper Tripeptide, GHK-Copper Peptide
Country of Origin	USA
Storage	Reconstituted protein: 1–4°C
Standard	Research Purity ≥99%

 

Advancing GHK-Cu Research

At Vi Corpus, we offer pharma-grade GHK-Cu designed for precision in laboratory applications. Our compound is trusted by researchers for its stability, purity, and performance in studies involving tissue regeneration, hair follicle activation, and skin repair.

To explore our full product range and support your scientific investigations, check out our GHK-Cu for detailed specifications and ordering options.

Disclaimer: Vicorpus does not endorse or promote the use of SARMs or Peptides for human consumption. Our blog posts are intended for informational purposes only and address common inquiries found on various forums. The sale of SARMs and Peptides is strictly limited to researchers for scientific and research purposes.