GHK-Cu
Research Overview · Mechanism of Action · Reconstitution Guide
Overview
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first isolated from human plasma by Loren Pickart in 1973. It is found in plasma, saliva, and urine, with plasma concentrations declining significantly with age (from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL at age 60). GHK-Cu has been extensively studied for its roles in wound healing, collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory signaling, and antioxidant defense. It is one of the most well-characterized cosmetic and regenerative peptides.
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu stimulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblasts. It activates metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9) for tissue remodeling while simultaneously upregulating their inhibitors (TIMP-1, TIMP-2), enabling balanced extracellular matrix turnover. GHK-Cu promotes angiogenesis via VEGF upregulation, activates TGF-β signaling for wound contraction, and modulates over 4,000 human genes according to microarray studies — including upregulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways and downregulation of genes associated with cancer progression and inflammation.
Key Studies & References
Pickart L & Margolina A (2018). Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci 19:1987.
Pickart L et al. (2015). GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. Biomed Res Int 2015:648108.
Gorouhi F & Maibach HI (2009). Role of topical peptides in preventing or treating aged skin. Int J Cosmet Sci 31:327–345.
Bacteriostatic Water Reconstitution Guide
Research Use Only — The following reconstitution information is provided for in vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
Recommended Solvent
Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) or sterile saline
Standard Volume
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to a 50 mg vial to yield a 25 mg/mL solution.
Working Concentration
25 mg/mL standard for parenteral research. Topical formulations typically use 0.1–2% concentrations.
Storage (Reconstituted)
Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 28 days. Lyophilized: -20°C, desiccated. Protect from light.
Stability Window
28 days refrigerated. The copper complex is stable but light-sensitive — store in amber vials or protect from light.
Technique
Inject solvent slowly. Swirl gently. GHK-Cu dissolves readily and produces a characteristic blue-green solution due to the copper complex.
Notes
The characteristic blue-green color of GHK-Cu solution is normal and confirms the intact copper complex. Colorless solution may indicate copper dissociation — discard if color is absent.
Research Dosing Reference
The following dosing information is derived from published preclinical research literature and is provided for reference purposes only.
Clinical / Human Research Range
Topical studies: 0.1–2% formulations. Parenteral research: 1–10 mg/kg in animal models.
Preclinical Models
Rodent wound healing studies: 1–5 mg/kg subcutaneous or topical application.
Calculation Example
For a 25 mg/mL solution: a 5 mg research dose = 0.2 mL. A 10 mg dose = 0.4 mL.