Copper Tripeptide · Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva and urine. GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively researched regenerative peptides — stimulating collagen synthesis, promoting wound healing, activating osteoblasts for bone repair, and demonstrating anti-inflammatory and neurotrophic properties.
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. First isolated from human plasma in 1973, it is present throughout the body and plays a fundamental role in wound healing and tissue remodelling. Plasma concentrations decline significantly with age — from approximately 200ng/ml at age 20 to 80ng/ml by age 60 — correlating with the reduced healing capacity and skin quality decline seen with aging.
GHK-Cu stimulates collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis — the structural proteins that form the scaffolding of skin, bone and connective tissue. It activates more than 4,000 human genes including those involved in tissue remodelling, anti-inflammatory signalling, antioxidant defence and nerve regeneration. The copper component is essential — it activates lysyl oxidase, the enzyme responsible for crosslinking collagen and elastin fibres into strong structural matrices.
GHK-Cu directly stimulates osteoblast differentiation and activity — the cells responsible for building new bone matrix. This makes it particularly relevant for osteoporosis, bone fracture recovery and post-surgical bone repair. The collagen matrix it promotes provides the organic scaffolding onto which mineral deposition occurs in bone formation.
GHK-Cu has been extensively studied in cosmetic and dermatological research — it is one of the most validated anti-aging compounds available. Topical application penetrates skin effectively and stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, reduces fine lines, improves skin density and promotes wound healing. For hair, GHK-Cu extends the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and has shown results comparable to minoxidil in some studies.
GHK-Cu promotes nerve growth factor expression and supports nerve tissue health — relevant for spinal conditions, peripheral neuropathy and neurological recovery applications. This neurotrophic mechanism adds a neurological dimension to its primarily structural repair applications.