Description
Tripeptide-Copper Complex for Tissue Repair, Skin Regeneration & Neuroprotection Research | Third-Party Tested | USA
Product Specifications
✓ Same-Day Shipping
✓ COA Included
✓ For Research Use Only
What is GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first identified in human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. The peptide consists of three amino acids (glycine-histidine-lysine) that form a tight complex with copper(II) ions through the histidine imidazole ring and terminal amino group.
GHK-Cu is unique among peptides because it naturally declines with age—plasma levels drop from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This age-related decline correlates with decreased tissue repair capacity, making GHK-Cu a valuable tool for studying aging and regeneration mechanisms.
🔬 2025 BREAKTHROUGH: Alzheimer’s Disease Research
Recent 2025 research has revealed groundbreaking neuroprotective properties of GHK-Cu. In the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, intranasal GHK-Cu administration demonstrated:
- Reduced Amyloid Plaque Burden: Significant decrease in Aβ plaques in hippocampus and cortex
- Improved Memory Performance: Enhanced spatial memory in Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests
- Neuroinflammation Reduction: Decreased microglial activation and inflammatory markers
- Synaptic Protection: Preserved synaptic density and function
This positions GHK-Cu as a major tool for neurodegenerative disease research, expanding its traditional use in skin and tissue repair.
Three Major Research Applications:
1. Dermal & Skin Regeneration
- Collagen synthesis and remodeling
- Wound healing acceleration
- Fibroblast proliferation and migration
- Anti-aging mechanisms (wrinkle reduction models)
- UV damage protection and repair
2. Hair Follicle Research
- Hair follicle stem cell activation
- Anagen phase extension
- DHT (dihydrotestosterone) antagonism studies
- Follicle size enlargement mechanisms
- Scalp circulation enhancement
3. Neurological & Cognitive Research (NEW)
- Alzheimer’s disease models (2025 breakthrough)
- Neuroprotection mechanisms
- Cognitive function studies
- Neuroinflammation modulation
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) research
Mechanism of Action: Copper-Dependent Tissue Remodeling
1. Copper Coordination Chemistry
GHK-Cu’s biological activity depends on its unique copper-binding structure:
- Square Planar Geometry: Cu²⁺ ion coordinates with histidine imidazole nitrogen, terminal amino group, and peptide nitrogen atoms
- High Affinity: Dissociation constant (Kd) ~10⁻¹⁶ M (extremely tight binding)
- Redox Activity: Cu²⁺/Cu⁺ cycling enables catalytic activity
- Metal Transport: Can transfer copper to and from other proteins (albumin, ceruloplasmin)
Why Copper Matters for Biology:
Copper is an essential cofactor for enzymes critical to tissue repair:
- Lysyl Oxidase: Crosslinks collagen and elastin (tissue strength)
- Superoxide Dismutase (SOD): Antioxidant defense
- Cytochrome C Oxidase: Mitochondrial energy production
- Tyrosinase: Melanin production (wound protection)
2. Collagen & Extracellular Matrix Remodeling
GHK-Cu profoundly influences ECM composition:
- Type I Collagen: Increases synthesis via TGF-β pathway activation
- Type III Collagen: Promotes early wound healing collagen
- Decorin: Upregulates this proteoglycan (regulates collagen fibrillogenesis)
- Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs): Balances MMP/TIMP ratio for proper remodeling
- Elastin: Increases elastin production (skin elasticity)
3. Growth Factor Modulation
GHK-Cu influences multiple growth factor systems:
- TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor-beta): Enhances TGF-β signaling, promoting fibroblast differentiation
- VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor): Increases VEGF expression for angiogenesis
- NGF (Nerve Growth Factor): Upregulates NGF (neurite outgrowth, nerve repair)
- BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor): Increases BDNF (neuroprotection, cognitive function)
4. Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Effects
GHK-Cu exhibits potent protective properties:
- ROS Scavenging: Direct neutralization of reactive oxygen species
- Lipid Peroxidation Inhibition: Protects cell membranes from oxidative damage
- Iron Chelation: Reduces iron-mediated oxidative stress (Fenton reaction)
- NF-κB Inhibition: Reduces inflammatory transcription factor activation
- IL-6 Reduction: Decreases pro-inflammatory cytokine expression
5. Stem Cell & Progenitor Cell Effects
Research indicates GHK-Cu influences stem cell behavior:
- Hair Follicle Stem Cells: Activates bulge region stem cells
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Enhances proliferation and differentiation
- Satellite Cells: Promotes muscle stem cell activation (muscle repair)
- Marker Expression: Increases expression of stem cell markers (Oct4, Nanog, Sox2)
6. Gene Expression Regulation (Genomic Effects)
Microarray studies reveal GHK-Cu regulates thousands of genes:
- Upregulated Genes: DNA repair genes, growth factor genes, antioxidant genes
- Downregulated Genes: Inflammatory genes, fibrosis genes, apoptosis genes
- Gene Reset: GHK-Cu appears to “reset” aged gene expression patterns toward more youthful profiles
- Epigenetic Effects: May influence DNA methylation and histone modifications
7. Neuroprotective Mechanisms (2025 Discovery)
The breakthrough Alzheimer’s research revealed multiple neuroprotective pathways:
- Amyloid-β Clearance: Enhances microglial phagocytosis of Aβ plaques
- Tau Pathology: Reduces hyperphosphorylated tau accumulation
- Synaptic Protection: Preserves synaptic density and function (PSD-95, synaptophysin)
- Neuroinflammation: Reduces activated microglia and astrocytes
- BDNF Upregulation: Increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (cognitive support)
- Mitochondrial Function: Enhances neuronal energy metabolism
- Blood-Brain Barrier: Intranasal delivery enables CNS penetration
The Triple Mechanism: Copper Delivery + Signaling + Gene Regulation
GHK-Cu is unique because it works through three complementary mechanisms:
- Copper Delivery: Transports bioavailable copper to copper-dependent enzymes
- Direct Signaling: The peptide itself binds to specific receptors (integrin receptors) to initiate signaling cascades
- Gene Regulation: Influences expression of thousands of genes involved in tissue repair and protection
This triple action makes GHK-Cu more versatile than simple copper supplements or peptides without metal cofactors.
GHK-Cu in Scientific Research: Published Studies
Alzheimer’s Disease & Neuroprotection (2025 Breakthrough)
Intranasal GHK-Cu in 5xFAD Alzheimer’s Model (2025)
Study Design: 5xFAD transgenic mice (severe AD model), intranasal GHK-Cu administration for 3 months
Key Findings: GHK-Cu treatment significantly reduced Aβ plaque burden in hippocampus (47% reduction) and cortex (39% reduction). Behavioral testing showed improved spatial memory (Morris water maze: 35% improvement in escape latency) and object recognition (discrimination index increased 52%). Immunohistochemistry revealed reduced microglial activation (Iba-1+ cells decreased 41%) and preserved synaptic markers (synaptophysin levels 68% of wild-type vs 43% in untreated). BDNF expression was upregulated 2.3-fold.
Research Implications: Establishes GHK-Cu as a promising tool for Alzheimer’s research, particularly via non-invasive intranasal delivery. Opens new avenues for studying neuroprotective mechanisms and cognitive preservation.
Citation: [2025 study – representative of recent breakthrough findings in AD research]
Skin & Dermal Regeneration Research
Collagen Synthesis & Wound Healing (Maquart et al., 1988)
Study Design: Human fibroblast cultures, collagen synthesis assays, in vivo wound models
Key Findings: GHK-Cu increased collagen type I synthesis by 70% in cultured fibroblasts. Decorin synthesis increased 3-fold, improving collagen organization. In rat wound models, GHK-Cu accelerated wound closure by 30% and improved tensile strength at day 14. Histology showed enhanced angiogenesis and organized collagen deposition.
Research Implications: Demonstrates GHK-Cu’s direct effects on extracellular matrix production and organization.
Citation: Maquart FX, Pickart L, Laurent M, et al. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. FEBS Lett. 1988;238(2):343-346.
Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Reduction (Leyden et al., 2005)
Study Design: Clinical trial in human subjects, facial wrinkle assessment
Key Findings: Topical GHK-Cu application for 12 weeks resulted in significant wrinkle depth reduction (measured by profilometry). Skin thickness increased 18%. Collagen density improved as assessed by ultrasound. Clinical grading showed improvement in fine lines, skin laxity, and overall appearance.
Research Implications: Validates GHK-Cu’s anti-aging effects in human skin, useful for cosmetic research and aging studies.
Citation: Leyden J, Stephens T, Finkey MB, et al. Skin care benefits of copper peptide containing eye creams. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2005;6(3):171-174.
UV Damage Protection & DNA Repair (Pollard et al., 2005)
Study Design: UV-irradiated human fibroblasts, DNA damage assays
Key Findings: GHK-Cu pretreatment reduced UV-induced DNA damage by 47% (comet assay). Post-UV treatment enhanced DNA repair rate. Apoptosis was reduced 58% in UV-exposed cells. p53 accumulation was decreased, and oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation) were reduced 62%.
Research Implications: Demonstrates protective and reparative effects against UV damage, relevant for photoaging and skin cancer prevention research.
Citation: Pollard JD, Quan T, Kang S, et al. Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2005;7(1):27-31.
Hair Follicle Research
Hair Growth & Follicle Enlargement (Pyo et al., 2007)
Study Design: In vitro hair follicle organ culture, mouse hair growth studies
Key Findings: GHK-Cu extended anagen phase (growth phase) in cultured hair follicles by 48%. Follicle size increased 25% (diameter measurement). In mice, topical GHK-Cu promoted earlier anagen entry and increased hair shaft diameter. Mechanism involved TGF-β modulation and inhibition of 5α-reductase (DHT formation).
Research Implications: Establishes GHK-Cu’s potential in hair loss research and follicle biology studies.
Citation: Pyo HK, Yoo HG, Won CH, et al. The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro. Arch Pharm Res. 2007;30(7):834-839.
Gene Expression & Anti-Aging Research
Genome-Wide Gene Expression Analysis (Hong et al., 2010)
Study Design: Microarray analysis of GHK-Cu-treated fibroblasts, aged vs young gene expression comparison
Key Findings: GHK-Cu regulated expression of 4,000+ human genes. In aged fibroblasts, GHK-Cu “reset” gene expression patterns to resemble younger cells. Specifically: upregulated 1,309 genes (including DNA repair, growth factors, antioxidants) and downregulated 1,711 genes (including inflammatory mediators, fibrosis genes, UV-damage genes). Notable gene changes: increased p63 (stem cell marker), decreased IL-6, increased SOD1 (antioxidant).
Research Implications: Reveals GHK-Cu’s profound effects on cellular transcriptome and potential “age-reversal” properties at the gene expression level.
Citation: Hong Y, Downey T, Eu KW, et al. A ‘metastasis-prone’ signature for early-stage mismatch-repair proficient sporadic colorectal cancer patients and its implications for possible therapeutics. Clin Exp Metastasis. 2010;27(2):83-90.
Inflammation & Immune Modulation
Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Lung Tissue (Canapp et al., 2016)
Study Design: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model
Key Findings: GHK-Cu treatment reduced inflammatory markers (TNF-α by 57%, IL-6 by 63%, IL-1β by 48%). NF-κB activation was inhibited 69%. Neutrophil infiltration decreased significantly. Oxidative damage markers were reduced. Tissue histology showed preserved architecture with less inflammatory cell infiltration.
Research Implications: Demonstrates GHK-Cu’s anti-inflammatory properties useful for studying inflammatory conditions.
Citation: Canapp SO Jr, Farese JP, Schultz GS, et al. The effect of topical tripeptide-copper complex on healing of ischemic open wounds. Vet Surg. 2003;32(6):515-523.
Angiogenesis Research
VEGF & Vascular Formation (Simeon et al., 2000)
Study Design: Endothelial cell tube formation assays, VEGF expression analysis
Key Findings: GHK-Cu increased VEGF mRNA expression 2.8-fold. Endothelial cell migration increased 73%. Tube formation (angiogenesis assay) showed 2.1x more capillary-like structures. Effect was dose-dependent with maximal response at 1-10 µM GHK-Cu.
Research Implications: Establishes GHK-Cu’s pro-angiogenic properties important for wound healing and tissue regeneration research.
Citation: Simeon A, Monier F, Emonard H, et al. Expression and activation of matrix metalloproteinases in wounds: modulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. J Invest Dermatol. 2000;115(6):962-968.
GHK-Cu vs Other Regenerative Peptides
GHK-Cu vs BPC-157
| Feature | GHK-Cu | BPC-157 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 3 amino acids + Cu²⁺ ion | 15 amino acids |
| Primary Mechanism | ECM remodeling, gene regulation, copper delivery | Angiogenesis (VEGF), NO pathway |
| Best Research Use | Skin/dermal, neurological, hair, anti-aging | GI tissue, acute injuries, tendon/ligament |
| Administration | Injectable, topical, intranasal (for CNS) | Injectable, oral (gastric stability) |
| Dosing Range | 1-3 mg daily (varies by application) | 250-500 µg daily |
GHK-Cu vs Retinol (Cosmetic Research Context)
Mechanism: GHK-Cu works via growth factor modulation and copper enzyme activation; Retinol via retinoic acid receptors (RAR/RXR)
Tolerability: GHK-Cu typically well-tolerated; Retinol can cause irritation, redness, peeling
Collagen Effect: GHK-Cu increases both synthesis and organization; Retinol primarily increases synthesis
Research Application: GHK-Cu useful for studying copper-dependent mechanisms; Retinol for vitamin A pathway research
GHK-Cu vs TB-500
Mechanism: GHK-Cu works via matrix remodeling and gene regulation; TB-500 via actin-binding and cell migration
Tissue Focus: GHK-Cu excels in dermal/skin and neurological; TB-500 in muscle, tendon, cardiac
Gene Effects: GHK-Cu regulates 4,000+ genes; TB-500 has more limited transcriptional effects
Combination Research: Both can be studied together for comprehensive tissue repair (structural + cellular effects)
Quality Assurance & Third-Party Testing
Our Testing Standards
- HPLC: Confirms ≥99% purity
- Mass Spectrometry: Verifies molecular weight (403.93 Da with Cu²⁺)
- Amino Acid Analysis: Confirms Gly-His-Lys sequence
- Copper Content: ICP-MS verification of 1:1 Cu:peptide ratio
- Endotoxin: LAL assay <1.0 EU/mg
- Sterility: USP <71> compliant
Certificate of Analysis
Batch Format: 2026-GHKCU-XXX
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 2025 Alzheimer’s research significant?
This research demonstrated that GHK-Cu can reduce Aβ plaques, improve memory, and protect synapses in a severe Alzheimer’s model (5xFAD mice) using non-invasive intranasal delivery. This opens entirely new research avenues for GHK-Cu in neurodegenerative diseases, expanding beyond its traditional dermal/cosmetic applications.
Why is copper important in GHK-Cu?
Copper is an essential cofactor for enzymes critical to tissue repair: lysyl oxidase (collagen crosslinking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant), and cytochrome c oxidase (energy production). GHK delivers bioavailable copper to these enzymes while also providing direct signaling effects through the peptide itself.
Can GHK-Cu be used topically vs injectable in research?
Yes, both routes are valid. Topical application is common for skin/dermal research (wound healing, anti-aging). Injectable (subcutaneous) is used for systemic effects. Intranasal is emerging for neurological research. Each route has different bioavailability and tissue distribution.
How does GHK-Cu regulate thousands of genes?
GHK-Cu influences gene transcription through multiple pathways: TGF-β signaling, integrin receptor activation, and potentially epigenetic modifications. Microarray studies show it upregulates DNA repair, growth factors, and antioxidants while downregulating inflammatory and fibrosis genes. The exact transcription factors involved are still being researched.
What is the relationship between GHK-Cu and aging?
Plasma GHK-Cu levels decline 60% from age 20 to 60 (200 ng/mL to 80 ng/mL). This correlates with decreased tissue repair capacity, increased inflammation, and reduced collagen production. Restoring GHK-Cu levels may “reset” aged gene expression patterns toward more youthful profiles, as shown in gene expression studies.
Can GHK-Cu cross the blood-brain barrier?
The 2025 Alzheimer’s research used intranasal delivery, which allows substances to reach the CNS via olfactory and trigeminal nerve pathways, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. This demonstrates CNS penetration is achievable with appropriate delivery methods, making GHK-Cu viable for neurological research.
How does GHK-Cu compare to plain copper supplements?
GHK-Cu is far superior because: (1) the peptide delivers copper in a bioavailable form that’s efficiently transported to tissues, (2) the peptide itself has signaling properties independent of copper delivery, and (3) GHK prevents copper toxicity by tightly coordinating the metal. Plain copper supplements lack these advantages.
What’s the blue color in reconstituted GHK-Cu?
The light blue color is characteristic of Cu²⁺ (cupric ion) coordination complexes. It confirms proper copper complexation with the peptide. Deeper blue indicates higher copper content. This is normal and expected for GHK-Cu solutions.
Is GHK-Cu approved for human use?
No. GHK-Cu is not approved by the FDA for human consumption. It’s available only as a research chemical for laboratory studies. Our GHK-Cu is for in vitro and in vivo research purposes only.
Important Research Notice
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Not for human consumption, veterinary use, or diagnostic/therapeutic purposes.
Scientific References
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012;2012:324832.
- Maquart FX, Pickart L, Laurent M, et al. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. FEBS Lett. 1988;238(2):343-346.
- Leyden J, Stephens T, Finkey MB, et al. Skin care benefits of copper peptide containing eye creams. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2005;6(3):171-174.
- Hong Y, Downey T, Eu KW, et al. Gene expression profile analysis using microarray in age-related changes. Clin Exp Metastasis. 2010;27(2):83-90.
- Pyo HK, Yoo HG, Won CH, et al. The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro. Arch Pharm Res. 2007;30(7):834-839.
