Description

GHK-Cu Peptide (Copper Tripeptide-1)

GHK-Cu, also known as Copper Tripeptide-1, is a naturally occurring copper-binding peptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine. This tripeptide forms a stable complex with copper ions (Cu²⁺) and has been studied extensively for its potential regenerative and signaling roles in biological systems. GHK-Cu is endogenously present in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations that decrease significantly with age—prompting interest in its role in tissue repair, anti-inflammatory signaling, and gene modulation.

GHK-Cu has been evaluated in experimental models for its ability to stimulate wound healing, angiogenesis, skin remodeling, and hair follicle proliferation. Research also suggests that it may act as a molecular switch for hundreds of genes related to tissue regeneration, antioxidant defense, and anti-fibrotic activity.

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Chemical Makeup

• Chemical Name: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu²⁺

• Molecular Formula: C14H24N6O4Cu

• Molecular Weight: 403.96 g/mol

• Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (complexed with Copper II)

• Solubility: Water-soluble; stable in aqueous solutions

• Form: Lyophilized powder or topical solution (for research)

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Research & Preclinical Investigations

GHK-Cu and Wound Healing

In rodent and in vitro tissue models, GHK-Cu has shown potential to enhance re-epithelialization, increase collagen synthesis, and stimulate fibroblast proliferation. The peptide-copper complex may modulate the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), promoting extracellular matrix remodeling critical to tissue regeneration.

Gene Expression and Anti-Aging Effects

Microarray studies in fibroblast cultures exposed to GHK-Cu revealed the modulation of over 4,000 human genes. Research suggests that GHK-Cu may suppress pro-inflammatory genes (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6) while upregulating repair and antioxidant genes, including those associated with superoxide dismutase (SOD) and DNA repair enzymes. These actions have attracted interest in aging and dermatological research.

Hair Follicle and Skin Cell Proliferation

GHK-Cu has been studied for its ability to increase dermal papilla cell viability and promote the anagen phase of the hair cycle in experimental scalp models. This peptide may also stimulate keratinocyte and dermal fibroblast proliferation, suggesting potential for use in regenerative dermatology and aesthetic research.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Pathways

In animal models of oxidative damage and UV exposure, GHK-Cu appears to reduce lipid peroxidation, lower inflammatory cytokines, and protect DNA from fragmentation. These findings support its proposed role in cytoprotection and anti-aging applications in experimental settings.

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Research Use Only

GHK-Cu is offered strictly for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research purposes. It is not intended for human use, therapeutic applications, or diagnostic procedures. Proper handling under institutional biosafety guidelines is required.

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References

1. Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987.

2. Maquart FX, Bellon G, Gillery P, et al. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu. FEBS Lett. 1988;238(2):343–346.

3. Pickart L, Freedman JH, Loker WJ, et al. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2015;26(6):304–315.

4. Abbas S, Schürer NY. Effects of copper tripeptide on skin: a systematic review. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e13701.