GHK-Cu

What Is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring copper complex first identified in human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973. It exists naturally in blood, saliva, and urine, with plasma levels declining significantly with age – from around 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.

GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied peptides in regenerative medicine, with over 60 years of published research documenting its effects on skin remodeling, wound healing, tissue repair, and gene expression modulation. It has been shown to influence the activity of over 4,000 human genes.

Mechanism of Action

Collagen & ECM Remodeling

GHK-Cu stimulates the synthesis of collagen types I, III, and V, as well as elastin, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans. It simultaneously activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) to break down damaged extracellular matrix while promoting new tissue formation.

Anti-Inflammatory Signaling

The peptide modulates inflammatory cytokines, reducing levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and other pro-inflammatory markers while promoting anti-inflammatory pathways. This dual action makes it effective for both acute wound healing and chronic inflammatory conditions in research models.

Gene Expression Reset

Broad-spectrum gene expression studies have shown GHK-Cu can reset the expression profile of aged or damaged cells toward a healthier pattern, affecting genes involved in antioxidant defense, DNA repair, apoptosis, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system.

Research Applications

• Skin Rejuvenation – Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis for improved skin thickness, elasticity, and firmness
• Wound Healing – Accelerates tissue repair through coordinated ECM remodeling and angiogenesis
• Hair Growth – Investigated for enlarging hair follicles and stimulating growth in alopecia models
• Anti-Aging – Studied for broad gene expression resetting toward youthful cellular patterns
• Lung & Tissue Fibrosis – Explored for anti-fibrotic properties through TGF-beta pathway modulation

Dosing Protocols

GHK-Cu can be administered subcutaneously or applied topically. Injectable protocols typically run 30–60 days; topical use is generally ongoing with no cycling requirement.

Preparation & Storage

Reconstitution

Supplies: peptide vial, bacteriostatic water, insulin syringes (29–31 gauge), alcohol swabs.

1. Clean both vial tops with alcohol swabs and let dry
2. Draw 2 mL of bacteriostatic water into the syringe
3. Insert needle into peptide vial at an angle against the glass wall
4. Let water run slowly down the side – never squirt directly onto powder
5. Gently swirl until fully dissolved – never shake
6. Solution should be clear – discard if cloudy or contains particles

Concentration: 50 mg in 2 mL = 25,000 mcg/mL

Storage

• Unreconstituted: Room temp or refrigerated, stable up to 24 months
• Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8°C (36–46°F), use within 4–6 weeks
• Protect from direct sunlight and heat
• Do not freeze reconstituted solution

Cycling

Typical research cycle: 4–8 weeks. Results generally reported within 2–4 weeks.