GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu (50mg) — Research Peptide

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first isolated from human plasma albumin by Loren Pickart in 1973. It is among the most extensively published peptides in dermal biology, wound healing, and regenerative research, with peer-reviewed studies spanning fibroblast biology, collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory signalling, and gene regulation.

Research Background

GHK-Cu occurs endogenously at concentrations of approximately 200ng/mL in young adults, declining significantly with age. This age-dependent decline parallels reductions in skin collagen density and wound healing capacity, which has motivated substantial research into GHK-Cu’s role in tissue repair and regeneration. The peptide-copper complex is stable in physiological conditions and readily taken up by cells via copper transport mechanisms.

Documented Mechanisms

Collagen synthesis: Multiple studies demonstrate GHK-Cu stimulates collagen I and III synthesis in human fibroblast cultures via TGF-β1/SMAD pathway activation, with effects documented at nanomolar concentrations. Maquart et al. (1988) showed increased collagen production in fibroblast cultures; subsequent studies extended findings to glycosaminoglycan and decorin synthesis.

MMP regulation: GHK-Cu modulates matrix metalloproteinase expression, downregulating MMP-1 (collagenase) while upregulating tissue inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 — shifting extracellular matrix balance toward preservation over degradation.

Anti-inflammatory activity: Inhibits TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 expression in macrophage and epithelial cultures. Pickart & Margolina (2018) identified over 4,000 human genes modulated by GHK-Cu via transcriptome analysis.

Product Specifications

• Compound: GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex)
• Dose: 50mg per vial
• Format: Lyophilised powder, bulk box of 10 vials
• Purity: ≥98% Janoshik HPLC verified
• Storage: -20°C. 24-month stability.

For laboratory research use only. Not for human cosmetic or therapeutic use.