GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide — The Skin and Tissue Restorer
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C14H23CuN6O4
- Molecular Weight
- 403.91 g/mol
- Sequence
- Gly-His-Lys
01
Overview
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Cu²⁺) is a naturally occurring copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Discovered in 1973, it has been extensively studied for its role in skin remodeling, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory activity. GHK-Cu declines with age, correlating with diminished tissue repair capacity.
02
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu stimulates fibroblast proliferation and enhances the synthesis of collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans. It activates TGF-β signaling and modulates over 4,000 human genes involved in tissue remodeling, inflammation, and DNA repair. Its copper chelation properties contribute to antioxidant activity.
03
Research Highlights
Gene expression studies show GHK-Cu resets genes to a younger pattern in aged tissue
Dermal research demonstrates 35% increase in collagen synthesis in aged fibroblasts
Scalp research shows activation of hair follicle keratinocyte proliferation
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue, typically once daily. Topical and microneedling application is also documented in dermatological research; timing independent of food.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
4–8 weeks; research often evaluates cumulative collagen remodeling over 8–12 weeks.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 50 mg vial
Concentration
25 mg/mL (25,000 mcg/mL)
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; protect from light. Discard 30 days after reconstitution.
Notes
GHK-Cu may sting on injection due to copper content. Dilute further or combine with BPC-157 in research protocols to reduce discomfort.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
GHK-Cu is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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GHK-Cu — Common Research Questions
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Cu²⁺) is a naturally occurring copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Discovered in 1973, it has been extensively studied for its role in skin remo... GHK-Cu belongs to the Healing research category and is studied for its copper peptide — the skin and tissue restorer.
How does GHK-Cu work?
GHK-Cu stimulates fibroblast proliferation and enhances the synthesis of collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans. It activates TGF-β signaling and modulates over 4,000 human genes involved in tissue remodeling, inflammation, and DNA repair. Its copper chelation properties contribute to antioxidant activity.
What are the key research benefits of GHK-Cu?
Collagen and elastin synthesis stimulation. Skin tightening and anti-wrinkle effects. Wound healing acceleration. Anti-inflammatory signaling modulation. Hair follicle stimulation and growth. Antioxidant gene expression upregulation.
What is the molecular structure of GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu has the molecular formula C14H23CuN6O4 and a molecular weight of 403.91 g/mol. Its amino acid sequence is Gly-His-Lys. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about GHK-Cu?
Gene expression studies show GHK-Cu resets genes to a younger pattern in aged tissue Dermal research demonstrates 35% increase in collagen synthesis in aged fibroblasts Scalp research shows activation of hair follicle keratinocyte proliferation These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. GHK-Cu is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?
No. GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does GHK-Cu belong to?
GHK-Cu belongs to the Healing category, which focuses on research-grade peptides studied for their regenerative and healing properties, supporting tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and systemic recovery. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Healing pillar page.
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GHK-Cu: Copper Peptides in Skin Remodeling
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Scientific References
Pickart & Margolina — "GHK-Cu: Skin Repair and Anti-Aging" (Adv Dermatol Allergol, 2018)
Pickart et al. — Gene expression modulation in aged fibroblasts, J Aging Res, 2012
Hyun et al. — Hair follicle keratinocyte activation, Phytother Res, 2014
Gene expression studies show GHK-Cu resets genes to a younger pattern in aged tissue
Dermal research demonstrates 35% increase in collagen synthesis in aged fibroblasts
Scalp research shows activation of hair follicle keratinocyte proliferation