GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1): Molecular Mechanisms and Regenerative Properties

Molecular Overview

GHK-Cu, or glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine–copper(II), is an endogenous tripeptide–metal complex naturally present in human plasma, saliva, and urine.

It forms when the tripeptide GHK chelates a divalent copper ion (Cu²⁺), creating a bioactive complex that serves as a cell signaling molecule regulating wound healing, tissue remodeling, and gene expression associated with cellular repair.

Discovered in the 1970s, GHK-Cu has since been identified as a key modulator of extracellular matrix synthesis, stem cell activation, and anti-inflammatory processes, making it one of the most well-characterized bioactive peptides in regenerative dermatology.

Mechanism of Action

• Collagen and Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Remodeling
  GHK-Cu upregulates the transcription of collagen types I and III, elastin, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) via TGF-β and integrin receptor-mediated signaling.
  
  This activity accelerates dermal matrix renewal, improving skin elasticity, firmness, and structural integrity.
   
• Cellular Repair and Regeneration
  By stimulating fibroblast proliferation, keratinocyte migration, and angiogenesis, GHK-Cu expedites the wound healing process.
  
  It enhances vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression, supporting tissue perfusion and neuroregeneration.
   
• Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity
  GHK-Cu downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, while increasing the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and other antioxidant enzymes, mitigating oxidative stress and cellular inflammation in dermal and follicular tissues.
   
• Copper Delivery and Enzymatic Support
  As a physiological copper carrier, GHK-Cu facilitates the delivery of copper to enzymes such as lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase, and tyrosinase, which are essential for cross-linking collagen and elastin, neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and melanin synthesis.
   
• Hair Follicle Stimulation
  GHK-Cu promotes anagen phase (growth phase) activation by enhancing Wnt/β-catenin signaling within hair follicle stem cells. This leads to increased follicular size, reduced miniaturization, and enhanced scalp microcirculation, supporting hair regrowth and density.

Physiological and Clinical Effects

• Skin Regeneration: Promotes dermal remodeling, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast activity for rejuvenated, firmer skin.
• Inflammation Reduction: Decreases cytokine-mediated inflammation and oxidative stress, minimizing redness and irritation.
• Accelerated Wound Healing: Enhances re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, and tissue integrity post-injury.
• Hair Growth Promotion: Stimulates dormant follicles, prolongs anagen phase, and supports thicker, healthier hair.
• Antioxidant Protection: Neutralizes free radicals and oxidative damage, preserving cellular vitality.

Therapeutic and Research Applications

GHK-Cu is extensively studied and utilized in:

• Regenerative dermatology (anti-aging, scar reduction, and wound healing)
• Trichology (hair regrowth and scalp rejuvenation)
• Tissue engineering and biomaterial coatings
• Oxidative stress modulation and inflammation control
• Post-procedural skin recovery (microneedling, laser therapy, PRP adjuncts)

Its bimodal role as both a cellular signaling peptide and a metal ion regulator positions GHK-Cu as a cornerstone molecule in cosmeceutical biotechnology and regenerative peptide therapeutics.

Legal Policy: 

This product is strictly for research purposes only and is intended solely for in vitro testing and laboratory experimentation. The information provided on this website is for educational use and does not permit the introduction of this product into humans or animals. Handling of this product is restricted to licensed and qualified professionals. It is not classified as a drug, food, or cosmetic, and should not be misrepresented or used as such.

All products sold on this site are for research and development use only. They are not intended for human or animal use.

The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Our products and content are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Tides Peptides is a chemical supplier, not a compounding pharmacy or a chemical compounding facility as defined under section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Molecular Formula

• Sequence: Gly-His-Lys.Cu.XHAc
• Formula: C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄
• Molecular Weight: ~401.97 g/mol

View Certificate of Analysis

1. What is GHK-Cu, and why does it matter?

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in the human body. It plays a vital role in tissue repair, skin regeneration, and anti-aging by signaling cells to repair and grow.

2. What are the benefits of GHK-Cu?

People use GHK-Cu for:

• Enhanced skin healing and regeneration

• Reduction in wrinkles and fine lines

• Improved hair growth and scalp health

• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

3. What is GHK-Cu used for?

GHK-Cu is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and is increasingly prescribed off-label for weight management and obesity. is commonly used in skincare and regenerative medicine for anti-aging, wound healing, and hair restoration treatments.

Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data.
Pickart L, Margolina A.Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Jul 7;19(7):1987. doi: 10.3390/ijms19071987.PMID: 29986520 Free PMC article. Review.
 

The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide.
Dou Y, Lee A, Zhu L, Morton J, Ladiges W.Aging Pathobiol Ther. 2020 Mar 27;2(1):58-61. doi: 10.31491/apt.2020.03.014.PMID: 35083444 Free PMC article.

Ternary Cu(II) Complex with GHK Peptide and Cis-Urocanic Acid as a Potential Physiologically Functional Copper Chelate.
Bossak-Ahmad K, Wiśniewska MD, Bal W, Drew SC, Frączyk T.Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Aug 27;21(17):6190. doi: 10.3390/ijms21176190.PMID: 32867146 Free PMC article.

The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice.
Park JR, Lee H, Kim SI, Yang SR.Oncotarget. 2016 Sep 6;7(36):58405-58417. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.11168.PMID: 27517151 Free PMC article.

GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration.
Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A.Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:648108. doi: 10.1155/2015/648108. Epub 2015 Jul 7.PMID: 26236730 Free PMC article. Review.

Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application.
Dymek M, Olechowska K, Hąc-Wydro K, Sikora E.Pharmaceutics. 2023 Oct 18;15(10):2485. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102485.PMID: 37896245 Free PMC article.

Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospective.
Mortazavi SM, Mohammadi Vadoud SA, Moghimi HR.Bioimpacts. 2024 Apr 28;15:30071. doi: 10.34172/bi.30071. eCollection 2025.PMID: 39963574 Free PMC article. Review.

The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.
Pickart L.J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2008;19(8):969-88. doi: 10.1163/156856208784909435.PMID: 18644225 Review.

Polyaspartic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-Methyl propane sulfonic acid and sodium alginate based biocompatible stimuli responsive polymer gel for controlled release of GHK-Cu peptide for wound healing.
Sharma S, Anwar MF, Dinda AK, Singhal M, Dua A, Malik A.J Biomater Appl. 2022 Jul;37(1):132-150. doi: 10.1177/08853282221076708. Epub 2022 Mar 26.PMID: 35341370

Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK-Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?
Ogórek K, Nowak K, Wadych E, Ruzik L, Timerbaev AR, Matczuk M.Molecules. 2025 Jan 1;30(1):136. doi: 10.3390/molecules30010136.PMID: 39795193 Free PMC article. Review.