GHK-Cu
Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma.
Also known as: Copper tripeptide-1, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
GHK-Cu is a small peptide formed by three amino acids (glycine, histidine, and lysine) bound to a copper ion. It occurs naturally in human plasma, where its concentration declines with age. It has been studied extensively in skin biology and cosmetic science and is one of the more thoroughly characterized research peptides.
Key facts
- Structure
- Three amino acid peptide (Gly-His-Lys) with bound copper ion
- Origin
- Isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Loren Pickart
- Cosmetic status
- Widely used in topical skincare products (copper peptide formulations)
- Primary research focus
- Wound healing, collagen stimulation, skin biology
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK is a sequence of three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine. It forms a stable complex with copper that can be represented as GHK-Cu. The peptide was first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by biochemist Loren Pickart, who observed that plasma from young donors had properties that were later traced to this peptide.
GHK-Cu exists naturally in the body at concentrations that decline with age. It has been incorporated into topical cosmetic products for decades and is one of the few research peptides that has a clearly established role in consumer skincare.
Mechanism of action
GHK-Cu functions partly as a copper carrier and partly as a signaling molecule. Copper is a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen crosslinking, melanin synthesis, and antioxidant defense. Gene expression studies of GHK-Cu applied to human cell cultures have reported effects on a wide range of genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and wound repair.
- •Delivers copper to cells in a controlled manner
- •Influences expression of genes involved in collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis
- •Reported effects on fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix remodeling in vitro
- •Studied in the context of wound healing and skin repair in animal models
Research context
Published research on GHK-Cu spans several decades. Pickart and colleagues have authored multiple papers describing its isolation, structure, and biological effects. Gene expression studies using Connectivity Map analysis have reported that GHK-Cu exposure produces transcriptional changes associated with tissue remodeling and repair pathways.
The cosmetic industry has conducted clinical studies of topical copper peptide formulations for skin appearance, reporting improvements in specific endpoints such as fine lines and elasticity. These studies are generally sponsored by product manufacturers and are distinct from therapeutic drug development.
Safety and regulatory context
GHK-Cu is permitted as a cosmetic ingredient and has a long history of topical use in skincare products. It is not approved by the FDA as a drug for any indication, and its use as an injectable research chemical is distinct from its cosmetic use. Adverse effect reports from topical use are uncommon at concentrations used in consumer products.
Material sold as a research chemical for injectable reconstitution is not cleared for human administration. Identity and purity of research-labeled GHK-Cu cannot be verified without independent analytical testing.
Research sourcing
GHK-Cu is listed by our research partner, GLP1 Research Lab, which supplies lyophilized peptides for laboratory use. Listings include product identifiers relevant to research documentation.
View GHK-Cu listing at GLP1 Research LabAffiliate partnership. Metabolic Playbook may earn a commission on purchases made through this link at no additional cost to the researcher.