GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper peptide GHK · GHK Copper · Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
Contents
MW
403.93 Da
Amino Acids
3 AA
Half-Life
2-4 hours
Route
SubQ, Topical
CAS
49557-75-7
Formula
C14H24CuN6O4
Amino Acid Sequence
Gly-His-Lys:Cu2+
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma levels decline from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60.
COLLAGEN SYNTHESIS: Stimulates collagen I and III production via TGF-β pathway activation in fibroblasts. Promotes decorin synthesis (collagen fiber organization). This is the primary mechanism for skin rejuvenation and wound healing.
ECM REMODELING: Activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) for controlled breakdown of damaged ECM, while simultaneously promoting synthesis of replacement collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. This remodeling (not just new collagen) distinguishes GHK-Cu from simple collagen stimulators.
ANTIOXIDANT: Copper delivery activates superoxide dismutase (SOD) — a key antioxidant enzyme. Reduces lipid peroxidation and iron-catalyzed oxidative damage.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: Suppresses NF-κB → reduces TNF-α, IL-6. Reduces TGF-β-induced scar formation (anti-fibrotic in context of wound healing, preventing excessive scarring).
GENE EXPRESSION: Genome-wide studies show GHK-Cu modulates expression of 4,000+ genes — 59% of genes altered by GHK return expression toward a "younger" pattern. Upregulates DNA repair genes and downregulates inflammatory genes.
HAIR: Enlarges hair follicles (vellus → terminal conversion), extends anagen phase, and increases follicle blood supply via VEGF.
NERVE REGENERATION: NGF-like signaling promotes Schwann cell migration and nerve fiber growth.
Dosing Protocol
Low Dose
███ – ███ mcg/day
Standard Dose
███ mcg/day
High Dose
███ – ███ mcg/day
Dosing protocols are for paid members
Get exact dosing ranges, injection frequency, timing rationale, and reconstitution math.
Get Clinical Access — $79/moFrequency
Topical: daily AM and/or PM.
Half-Life
2-4 hours
Reconstitution Guide
Full reconstitution protocol with BAC water volumes, concentration math, and units-to-draw per dose is available on the Clinical plan.
Unlock reconstitution guide →Clinical Warnings
Copper accumulation risk with chronic high-dose use.
Not for use near active cancers (growth factor stimulation).
Injectable route poorly characterized.
Hyperpigmentation at injection sites reported anecdotally.
Copper toxicity possible with excessive injectable use.
Contraindications
Absolute
Wilson disease
Copper hypersensitivity
Pregnancy
Relative Cautions
Copper metabolism disorders
Liver disease
Side Effect Profile
Mild
- ●Skin irritation (topical)
- ●Injection site redness
Moderate
- ●Mild nausea
- ●Headache
Synergistic Peptides
Common Stacks
BPC-157
TB-500
Research Status
MODERATE TOPICAL DATA. Gene expression studies show 4,000+ gene modulation. Wound healing trials positive. Pickart research program (primary). No large injectable RCTs. Topical evidence strongest for skin aging and wound healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does GHK-Cu work?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma levels decline from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60. COLLAGEN SYNTHESIS: Stimulates collagen I and III production via TGF-β pathway activation in fibroblasts. Promotes decorin synthesis (collagen fiber organization). This is the primary mechanism for skin rejuvenation and wound healing. ECM REMODELING: Activates matrix metalloproteinases (MM
What is the standard dose of GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu dosing protocols are available with a ClinPep Clinical subscription. Dosing varies by indication and patient factors — consult a licensed healthcare provider. General frequency: Topical: daily AM and/or PM.
What is the half-life of GHK-Cu?
The half-life of GHK-Cu is 2-4 hours. This determines optimal dosing frequency and timing.
Who should not use GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is absolutely contraindicated in: Wilson disease; Copper hypersensitivity; Pregnancy. Use with caution in: Copper metabolism disorders; Liver disease.
What are the side effects of GHK-Cu?
Common mild side effects include: Skin irritation (topical), Injection site redness. Moderate effects: Mild nausea, Headache.
What peptides stack well with GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is commonly stacked with: BPC-157, TB-500, Epithalon.
How do you reconstitute GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Exact volumes, concentrations, and units-to-draw calculations are available in the ClinPep Clinical plan. Always follow your compounding pharmacy's instructions.
How long should you cycle GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu cycle protocols vary by indication. Detailed cycle length, on/off schedules, and monitoring guidelines are available with ClinPep Clinical access. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized cycling guidance.
References & Citations
10 PubMed studies · 2 clinical trials
An injectable hydroxyapatite microsphere filler loaded with GHK-Cu tripeptide for anti-Inflammatory and antioxidant.
Hu Die, Zhang Xuexun, Gong Shiwen, Ma Wentao et al.. Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces. 2025
With the wide application of soft tissue fillers, implant material-induced inflammatory reactions have become a key factor affecting the therapeutic efficacy. This study developed an injectable filler
Copper Complexes with New Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Hyaluronan Conjugates Show Antioxidant Properties and Osteogenic and Angiogenic Synergistic Effects.
Greco Valentina, Lanza Valeria, Tomasello Barbara, Naletova Irina et al.. Bioconjugate chemistry. 2025
In recent years, hyaluronic acid (HA) and the natural tripeptide glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine (GHK), especially its copper(II) complex (GHK-Cu), individually have been shown to exert helpful properties
Food-Derived Tripeptide-Copper Self-Healing Hydrogel for Infected Wound Healing.
Chen Han, Yang Pu, Xue Ping, Li Songjie et al.. Biomaterials research. 2025
The field of infected wound management continues to face challenges, and traditional methods used to cope with wounds include debridement, gauze coverage, medication, and others. Currently, synthetic
Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK-Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?
Ogórek Karolina, Nowak Kinga, Wadych Emilia, Ruzik Lena et al.. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). 2025
Cosmetically active compounds (CACs), both of lipophilic and hydrophilic origin, have difficulty reaching the deeper layers of the skin, and this shortcoming significantly reduces their efficacy. One
Palmitoyl copper peptide and acetyl tyrosine complex enhances melanin production in both A375 and B16 cell lines.
Hong Minhua, Gui Yingyue, Xu Jiayao, Zhao Xianglong et al.. Biochemical and biophysical research communications. 2025
Copper peptide, a low molecular weight peptide composed of glycyl-L-histidyl-l-lysine-copper, possesses anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. In this study, we investigated the
Novel Applications of CE-ICP-MS/MS: Monitoring of Antiaging GHK-Cu Cosmetic Component Encapsulation in Liposomes.
Zajda Joanna, Wadych Emilia, Ogórek Karolina, Drozd Marcin et al.. Electrophoresis. 2024
The hyphenation of the separation technique with the high-sensitive mass spectrometry detection is one of the driving forces of modern analysis enabling measurements in complex matrices. In particular
The glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ tripeptide complex attenuates lung inflammation and fibrosis in silicosis by targeting peroxiredoxin 6.
Bian Yiding, Deng Mingming, Liu Jia, Li Jiaye et al.. Redox biology. 2024
Silicosis is the most common type of pneumoconiosis, having a high incidence in workers chronically exposed to crystalline silica (CS). No specific medication exists for this condition. GHK, a tripept
Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine prevents copper- and zinc-induced protein aggregation and central nervous system cell death in vitro.
Min Jin-Hong, Sarlus Heela, Harris Robert A. Metallomics : integrated biometal science. 2024
Common features of neurodegenerative diseases are oxidative and inflammatory imbalances as well as the misfolding of proteins. An excess of free metal ions can be pathological and contribute to cell d
Registered Clinical Trials
Trial Assessing the Impact on Facial Skin Quality, Hydration, and Skin Barrier of Three (3) Hydrafacial Treatments in Adults of All Skin Types.
Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing
Symptom Indications
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Complete GHK-Cu Protocol
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This information is for educational and research reference purposes only. ClinPep does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. All protocols should be reviewed by a licensed healthcare provider.