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Research CompoundSkin & BeautyLongevity & Cellular Health(Copper Tripeptide-1)

GHK-Cu

A human plasma-derived tripeptide with high copper affinity, studied for collagen remodeling, skin repair, and gene expression modulation.

Known Aliases:Copper PeptideCopper Tripeptide-1GHK Copper
GHK-Cu 3D Molecular Conformation Artwork
Biological DomainSkin & Beauty
Molecular Conformation Visualization
Bioactive Specifications32 Amino Acids
Half-Life

~1 - 2 hours (free tripeptide)

Receptor Target

TGF-beta Receptor

Molecular Formula

C14H24CuN6O4

Administration

Used topically in dermatological formulations (1-2%) and investigated via subcutaneous injection.

Rigorous Scientific Hierarchy

Evidence Quality Snapshot

Independent Literature Synthesis
Human Evidence
Limited

Small or observational human data; warrants clinical caution.

Preclinical Evidence
Extensive

Animal (rodent) and in-vitro cellular assays. Does NOT prove human efficacy.

Clinical / Regulatory
Research Compound

Formal regulatory oversight and verified clinical development phase.

Evidence classification for GHK-Cu: Human clinical data is strictly differentiated from non-human animal and in-vitro laboratory assays.

Pharmacokinetics & Chemical Specification

Biological Half-Life~1 - 2 hours (free tripeptide)
Molecular Mass403.92 g/mol
CAS Registration49557-75-7
Primary Target Receptors:
TGF-beta ReceptorMMP/TIMP CascadesCopper-dependent enzymes
Chemical Formula:

C14H24CuN6O4

Amino Acid Sequence:

Gly-His-Lys (chelated with Cu2+)

What is GHK-Cu?

Isolated by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide whose plasma levels decline significantly with age. Research demonstrates broad epigenetic actions, altering the expression of over 4,000 human genes toward a youthful, restorative baseline, including genes involved in DNA repair and antioxidant defense.

Biological Mechanism

Stimulates synthesis of collagen Types I, III, and IV, decorin, and elastin. Modulates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and TIMPs to rebuild healthy extracellular matrix while reducing inflammatory cytokine release (TNF-alpha, IL-6).

Scientific Studies & Clinical Evidence

Peer-reviewed publications, clinical trials, and preclinical research investigating GHK-Cu.

Review / Secondary Research2018-07-07

Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in Light of the New Gene Data

Comprehensive review and gene-array profiling detailing how GHK-Cu resets gene expression in human fibroblasts toward a younger phenotype and accelerates cutaneous wound closure.

Primary Result: Identified regulation of >4,000 human genes associated with extracellular matrix regeneration
International Journal of Molecular SciencesRead Study Summary

Educational Dosing References

Documented literature dosing intervals and published clinical trial protocols.

Clinical dosing parameters are determined in trial contexts. Review the linked studies above for specific protocol arms.

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Administration Methods & Handling

Biological delivery routes and standardized laboratory reconstitution principles.

Administration Summary

Used topically in dermatological formulations (1-2%) and investigated via subcutaneous injection.

Reconstitution & Storage Standard

Lyophilized peptides must be reconstituted using sterile bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) and maintained strictly refrigerated between 2°C - 8°C (36°F - 46°F), shielded from light.

View Full Preparation Protocol

Related Research News

Recent articles referencing GHK-Cu.

No news articles currently published for this compound.

Where This Information Came From: Scientific Sources

Compiled from peer-reviewed biomedical literature, public clinical trial registries, and recognized reference catalog databases.

Transparent Attribution
Primary Scientific & Clinical Registries

Pharmacological profiles, receptor targets, and clinical data are verified against primary registries:

Secondary & Reference Catalog Resources

Community research topics, peptide nomenclature, and aliases are cross-referenced with public catalogs:

This topic was identified through research of publicly available peptide resources and peer-reviewed literature. Peptide Health Digest provides independent scientific explanations and does not endorse commercial distribution.