G-CU

GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide essential for tissue regeneration and extracellular matrix remodeling. In laboratory research, it is studied for its ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production, which supports structural integrity. Because of its role in angiogenesis and growth factor modulation, GHK-Cu is a primary subject of investigation for wound healing, hair follicle support, and general tissue repair.

Properties of GHK-Cu

• Peptide Sequence: Gly-His-Lys

• Chemical Formula: C14H24N6O4

• Molecular Mass: 340.38 g/mol

• CAS Number: 49557-75-7

• PubChem: 73587

• Vial Size: 3ml

Lyophilized Peptides

These peptides are provided in a freeze-dried, filler-free state, ensuring the preservation of their chemical integrity and purity throughout storage.

Disclaimer

This content is provided strictly for research purposes and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation for the non-laboratory application or improper handling of peptides designed for research. The information, including discussions about specific peptides and their researched benefits, is presented for informational purposes only and must not be construed as health, clinical, or legal guidance, nor an encouragement for non-research use in humans. Peptides described here are solely for use in structured scientific study by authorized individuals. We advise consulting with research experts, medical practitioners, or legal counsel prior to any decisions about obtaining or utilizing these peptides. The expectation of responsible, ethical utilization of this information for legitimate investigative and scholarly objectives is paramount. This notice is dynamic and governs all provided content on research peptides.

Research

GHK-Cu acts by forming a complex between the GHK tripeptide and a copper ion. While naturally present in human plasma, its concentration declines with age, prompting research into its use for tissue remodeling, anti-inflammatory support, and antioxidant activity.

Skin Health and Tissue Repair
GHK-Cu is extensively investigated for its role in skin regeneration, where it improves elasticity, increases skin density, and minimizes photodamage.¹,² By inhibiting elastase, the peptide protects the skin’s structural framework.³ Furthermore, it accelerates wound healing by stimulating angiogenesis and the synthesis of essential factors like VEGF and FGF-2, leading to faster tissue closure in experimental models.⁴,⁵

Pulmonary Conditions
Research indicates that GHK-Cu can mitigate fibrotic and inflammatory changes in pulmonary tissues. In models of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the peptide reduces levels of TNF-α and IL-6, restores antioxidant defenses via Nrf2 upregulation, and suppresses NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways, thereby limiting oxidative damage and tissue destruction.⁶-⁸

Neurodegenerative Disorders
GHK-Cu demonstrates potential neuroprotective effects by preventing metal-induced protein aggregation—a common feature in Alzheimer's disease.⁹ Intranasal administration in animal models has shown improved cognitive outcomes, decreased amyloid plaque formation, and the modulation of genes associated with neuronal survival and cognitive function.⁹-¹¹

Antibacterial and Anti-Cancer Activity
Recent developments in GHK-Cu nanoparticles have revealed significant antibacterial efficacy against strains such as E. coli and S. aureus, providing a useful tool for infection control in wound management.¹² Furthermore, GHK-Cu has been shown to modulate gene expression in various cancer cell lines, such as MCF7 and PC3, potentially reversing pathological expression patterns associated with tumor progression and supporting healthy tissue remodeling.¹³

References
Pickart, L. (2008). The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 19, 969–988. https://doi.org/10.1163/156856208784909435.

Pickart, L., Vasquez-Soltero, J., & Margolina, A. (2015). GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. BioMed Research International, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/648108.

Dymek, M., Olechowska, K., Hąc-Wydro, K., & Sikora, E. (2023). Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application. Pharmaceutics, 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15102485.

Wang, X. et al. (2017). GHK‐Cu‐liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 25. https://doi.org/10.1111/wrr.12520.

Maquart, F. et al. (1993). In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds. JCI, 92(5), 2368–76. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI116842.

Hou, G., & Zhou, X. (2018). Antioxidant and anti-inflammation effect of GHK-Cu in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. ERS International Congress. https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.CONGRESS-2018.PA2957.

Zhang, Q. et al. (2022). Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ attenuates cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary emphysema and inflammation by reducing oxidative stress pathway. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmolb.2022.925700.

Park, J. et al. (2016). The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice. Oncotarget, 7, 58405–58417. https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.11168.

Min, J., Sarlus, H., & Harris, R. (2024). Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine prevents copper- and zinc-induced protein aggregation and central nervous system cell death in vitro. Metallomics, 16. https://doi.org/10.1093/mtomcs/mfae019.

Tucker, M. et al. (2023). Behavioral and neuropathological features of Alzheimer’s disease are attenuated in 5xFAD mice treated with intranasal GHK peptide. bioRxiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.11.20.567908.

Pickart, L., Vasquez-Soltero, J., & Margolina, A. (2017). The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression Relevant to Nervous System Function and Cognitive Decline. Brain Sciences, 7. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci7020020.

Sun, L. et al. (2019). Self‐Assembled Fluorescent and Antibacterial GHK‐Cu Nanoparticles for Wound Healing Applications. Particle & Particle Systems Characterization, 36. https://doi.org/10.1002/ppsc.201800420.

Pickart, L., Biology, F., & Margolina, A. (2021). Modulation of Gene Expression in Human Breast Cancer MCF7 and Prostate Cancer PC3 Cells by the Human Copper-Binding Peptide GHK-Cu. OBM Genetics, 5. https://doi.org/10.21926/OBM.GENET.2102128.