GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Discovered by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, GHK-Cu has been the subject of over 100 published studies. Plasma levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60 — which has driven significant interest in its potential role in tissue repair and skin rejuvenation research.

GHK-Cu activates a broad array of biological processes through its copper-binding properties. It stimulates collagen I, III, and elastin synthesis, promotes glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production, activates metalloproteinases for tissue remodeling, and stimulates angiogenesis. Research shows it modulates expression of over 4,000 human genes, with many involved in stem cell function, antioxidant defense, and ECM remodeling. The copper ion serves as a critical cofactor for numerous enzymatic processes.

• Stimulated collagen synthesis and improved skin elasticity in human skin culture models
• Enhanced wound healing with reduced scarring and improved tensile strength
• Modulated 31.2% of human genes toward a younger, healthier expression pattern (Campbell et al., 2012)
• Demonstrated antioxidant activity via SOD and glutathione upregulation
• Promoted hair follicle growth and increased follicle size in preclinical models

1. GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration
   Biomed Res Int, 2015
2. GHK-Cu may prevent oxidative stress in skin by regulating copper and modifying expression of antioxidant genes
   Cosmetics, 2012
3. Tripeptide GHK-Cu and wound healing
   J Biol Inorg Chem, 2010

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