Longevity & Cellular Health
GHK-Cu
Natural tripeptide with copper ion that possesses powerful skin regenerative properties, DNA repair capabilities, and effects in cellular longevity models. It stimulates the synthesis of collagen and elastin.
Also known as: Copper Peptide GHK · Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
Specifications
| Research area | Longevity & Cellular Health | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-life | 1–2 h | ||
| Molecular weight | 340.4 Da | ||
| Amino acid residues | 3 | ||
| CAS number | 89030-95-5 | ||
| Formula | C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄ | ||
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (Cu²⁺ complex) | ||
| Designation | Copper(II) glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine | ||
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 1–2 h | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| T-max | ~15 min | ||
| Route | Subcutaneous / topical (research use) | ||
Receptor targets
| TGF-β1 receptor | Collagen / GAG upregulation | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Wnt/β-catenin axis | Hair follicle stem-cell activation | ||
| MMP-2/MMP-9 | Matrix remodeling modulation | ||
Signalling cascade
- Cu²⁺ chelation
- TGF-β1 / Wnt signaling
- Collagen + GAG synthesis
- ECM remodeling
Research areas
- Mechanism of action
- Copper-chelated tripeptide that upregulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis via TGF-β1 signaling. Modulates matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity for controlled extracellular matrix remodeling and activates hair follicle stem cells through Wnt/β-catenin pathways.
- Reported research ranges
- 2–5 mg subcutaneously daily, or topically at 0.5–2%.
- Reported adverse effects
- Well tolerated. May cause temporary skin redness with topical use.
- Storage and handling
- Refrigerate at 2–8 °C after reconstitution. Protect from light.
Research focus
- Collagen I and III synthesis and ECM remodeling
- Angiogenesis via VEGF and FGF upregulation
- Hair follicle activation and keratinocyte proliferation
- Wound healing and skin barrier repair
- Antioxidant gene expression (SOD, catalase) in aging models
Overview
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide composed of glycine (Gly), histidine (His), and lysine (Lys), which is chelated with copper. This peptide has been extensively studied in laboratories due to its potential in research related to collagen remodeling, angiogenesis, and the activation of hair follicles. In preclinical models, GHK-Cu has been observed to influence tissue regeneration and skin health.
Research focuses on how GHK-Cu can modulate essential biological processes, making it an area of interest for scientists. Its ability to promote collagen synthesis and improve microcirculation renders it relevant in studies concerning skin rejuvenation and hair growth.
This material is published for scientific and educational reference. It is not medical advice, not a treatment recommendation, and not an offer to sell. Compounds discussed are for research and laboratory use only.
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