GHK-Cu (Glycyl-histidyl-lysine copper)
GHK-Cu is a small peptide of three amino acids bound to copper; it is found in human blood, and its levels decline with age. It is studied as a signal for renewing skin and tissues: collagen production, blood vessel growth, and reduced inflammation.
Gly-His-Lys + Cu²⁺ chelate. ~341 Da. Discovered in 1973. Found in plasma, saliva, urine. Level: 200→80 ng/mL (age 20→60).
A universal regenerative signaling peptide. Regulates the expression of 4000+ genes (31.2% of the human genome). ↑Collagen I/III, elastin, GAGs. ↑Angiogenesis (↑VEGF). ↑Neurogenesis (↑NGF). ↑SOD (antioxidant). Clinical cosmetic data: ↓wrinkles: -55.8% volume, -32.8% depth.
Activates TGF-β + fibronectin receptors → ↑matrix genes. Cu²⁺ = cofactor: lysyl oxidase (collagen cross-linking) + SOD (antioxidant) + tyrosinase (pigmentation). ↓TNF, ↓IL-6, ↓NF-κB → anti-inflammatory action.
Studies used 1-2 mg SC 2-3 times/week systemically; topically — 2-5% (cosmetic) or 1-3 ppm (professional).
Level C-D Animal studies. Effects have been shown in animals. Whether they carry over to humans has not been proven. no RCTs. Cosmetic clinical tests.
⚠️ No level A clinical RCTs. Cosmetic tests ≠ pharmaceutical RCTs. Research only (systemic).
Research peptides are laboratory reagents (Research Use Only). They are not medicines and are not intended for use in humans or animals.