GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973. Found in plasma, saliva, and urine — with levels that decline with age — it has been the subject of over five decades of published research. Studies have focused on its roles in wound healing, collagen synthesis, and gene expression modulation, making it one of the most extensively characterized copper peptides in the scientific literature.
Why Researchers Study It
GHK-Cu sits at a remarkable intersection of simplicity and complexity. A three-amino-acid peptide bound to a copper ion, yet gene profiling has revealed it modulates expression of over 4,000 human genes — roughly 6% of the genome. That breadth of documented gene activity, combined with decades of wound healing data, keeps researchers coming back to it.
Wound Healing & Tissue Remodeling
Published studies have documented GHK-Cu's effects on collagen synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, and decorin accumulation across multiple wound healing models.
Gene Expression Modulation
Broad Institute Connectivity Map studies revealed GHK modulates over 4,000 human genes, including those involved in antioxidant response, inflammation, and tissue remodeling.
Growth Factor Secretion
Research has documented increased secretion of growth factors including bFGF and VEGF in fibroblast cultures exposed to GHK-Cu.
Collagen & Extracellular Matrix
Studies in rat wound models demonstrated that GHK-incorporated dressings increased collagen synthesis up to 9-fold compared to controls.
Research Timeline
8 milestones spanning 1973–2018
- First isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart (1973)
- Gene expression profiling revealed modulation of 4,000+ genes (2010–2012)
- Comprehensive regenerative and protective actions reviewed in Int J Mol Sci (2018)
Related Learning
Guides, articles, and resources connected to this compound.
Copper Peptides & Collagen Signaling
How copper peptide complexes interact with extracellular matrix pathways.
Angiogenesis Signaling
VEGF pathways and vascular formation research relevant to GHK-Cu.
Complete Guide to Research Peptides
Comprehensive overview of the research peptide landscape.
Peptide Mechanisms Explained
Receptor binding, signaling cascades, and pathway interactions.
Research Database
Searchable index of published research across all compounds.
Published Research
Selected citations from the published literature.
Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987.
PMID: PMC6073405Pollard JD, et al. Effects of Copper Tripeptide on the Growth of Fibroblasts. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2005;7(1):27-31
Pickart L. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. Biomed Res Int. 2015.
PMID: 26236730Explore GHK-Cu
Research data, product specifications, and related kits.
Research Use Compliance
All information presented on this page references published preclinical research and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. These products are intended for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption. No statements on this page have been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.