GHK-CU

Here's the condensed version:

GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide composed of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, with copper (II) ions chelated to the peptide complex. Found in plasma and released at the site of injury, GHK-Cu concentrations decline significantly with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. Research has explored its potential across a broad range of functions including tissue repair, collagen synthesis, gene expression modulation, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory action.

Chemical Makeup Molecular Formula: C14H23CuN6O4 | Molecular Weight: 340.38 g/mol | Also known as: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper 2+

Research Highlights

• Tissue Repair — Early studies found GHK-Cu may stimulate collagen synthesis and total protein accumulation at injury sites by binding copper ions and activating decorin protein. In a 21-day rabbit wound study, GHK-Cu appeared to outperform both zinc oxide and placebo in wound healing; a separate 28-day study found GHK-Cu combined with laser application reduced neutrophil counts and increased neovascularization.
• Ulcer Healing — A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in diabetic subjects with neuropathic ulcers found GHK-Cu peptide gel appeared to facilitate closure of 98.5% of plantar ulcers vs. 60.8% in the control group.
• Metastasis Research — A 1983 study in 180 mice with cancerous growths found a GHK-Cu and ascorbic acid mixture may have suppressed tumor cell growth. Further research suggests the peptide may increase caspase expression and reactivate apoptosis pathways in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma and U937 lymphoma cells, while promoting healthy fibroblast growth in non-cancerous models.
• Antioxidant Properties — Studies using flow cytometry and electron spin resonance found GHK may selectively neutralize hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals, potentially outperforming carnosine and glutathione in hydroxyl radical neutralization. The peptide may also restrict iron release from ferritin by up to 87%, potentially reducing lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in affected tissues.
• Anti-Inflammatory Action — In cigarette smoke-exposed murine models, GHK-Cu was associated with reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α), decreased myeloperoxidase activity, and potential modulation of both the NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways — suggesting a dual role in limiting inflammation and enhancing cellular oxidative defense.
• Behavioral Properties — Murine studies suggest GHK-Cu may reduce pain sensitivity, decrease anxiety-related behaviors in maze testing, and reduce stress-induced aggression by up to 5-fold compared to controls.

Available for research and laboratory purposes only.