GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide with a strong affinity for copper ions. First identified in human plasma in 1973, GHK-Cu has since become one of the most studied peptides in tissue remodeling and wound healing research.
GHK-Cu is found naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma concentrations are highest in young adults (approximately 200 ng/mL) and decline significantly with age — a pattern that has driven research interest in its potential role in age-related tissue changes.
The peptide was originally isolated by Dr. Loren Pickart while studying the effects of human albumin on hepatic tissue. Researchers observed that aged liver tissue exposed to young plasma exhibited functional improvements, eventually tracing this activity to the GHK-Cu complex.
GHK-Cu’s biological activity spans multiple pathways. Research has documented its role in stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, promoting fibroblast proliferation, and supporting glycosaminoglycan production. These activities are central to extracellular matrix maintenance and tissue structural integrity.
Additionally, GHK-Cu has demonstrated antioxidant properties in research models. Studies have examined its ability to modulate superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduce markers of oxidative damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties have also been documented through studies on cytokine modulation.
One of the most significant areas of GHK-Cu research involves gene expression. Studies have identified that GHK-Cu may influence the expression of over 4,000 human genes — approximately 6% of the human genome. Many of these genes are associated with tissue repair, immune regulation, and antioxidant response.
This broad gene expression profile has positioned GHK-Cu as a compound of interest beyond traditional wound healing research, extending into areas of systemic tissue health and aging models.
Published research has explored GHK-Cu in wound healing acceleration, scar tissue remodeling, hair follicle stimulation, bone tissue repair, and skin photoaging models. Its copper-binding properties add an additional dimension of interest, as copper ions play essential roles in enzymatic processes including those involved in collagen cross-linking.
GHK-Cu is supplied as lyophilized powder at 50mg concentration. Store at -20°C prior to reconstitution. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, refrigerate at 2–8°C. The reconstituted solution should be used within a reasonable timeframe and protected from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
At White Label Research, GHK-Cu undergoes third-party HPLC and mass spectrometry testing to verify identity and purity. Certificates of analysis are available on the product page. Our standard threshold is ≥99% purity.
