GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied peptides in skin science. Here’s what researchers have found and why it continues to generate interest.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It was first identified in the 1970s by Dr Loren Pickart, who observed that liver tissue from young donors could stimulate aged liver cells to produce proteins characteristic of younger tissue. The active factor was identified as GHK, which naturally binds to copper ions to form GHK-Cu.
Why copper matters
The copper ion in GHK-Cu isn’t just along for the ride — it’s functionally important. Copper is a cofactor for several enzymes involved in:
- Collagen synthesis — copper-dependent lysyl oxidase is essential for collagen cross-linking
- Antioxidant defence — superoxide dismutase (SOD) requires copper to neutralise free radicals
- Wound healing — copper plays a role in angiogenesis and tissue remodelling
GHK-Cu essentially serves as a delivery mechanism, bringing copper to where it’s needed at the cellular level.
Key research findings
Collagen and extracellular matrix
GHK-Cu has been shown in multiple studies to:
- Stimulate collagen synthesis (types I and III)
- Increase production of elastin
- Promote glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis, including hyaluronic acid
- Upregulate decorin, a proteoglycan involved in collagen fibre organisation
These are the primary structural components that give skin its firmness, elasticity, and hydration.
Wound healing
Research demonstrates GHK-Cu’s role in wound healing through several mechanisms:
- Promoting angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation)
- Attracting immune cells to wound sites
- Stimulating dermal fibroblast proliferation
- Reducing scar tissue formation through TGF-beta modulation
Anti-inflammatory effects
Studies have shown GHK-Cu can reduce inflammatory markers, including IL-6 and TNF-alpha. This is particularly relevant for skin research, as chronic low-grade inflammation is associated with accelerated skin ageing.
Gene expression
Perhaps the most interesting finding: a 2012 study by Pickart et al. found that GHK-Cu influences the expression of over 4,000 genes — roughly 6% of the human genome. Many of these genes are involved in:
- DNA repair
- Antioxidant response
- Stem cell activity
- Anti-inflammatory pathways
GHK-Cu vs other copper peptides
Not all copper peptides are the same. GHK-Cu is the most studied and has the strongest body of evidence. Other copper peptides (AHK-Cu, DAHK) have different binding properties and biological activities. When reviewing the literature, it’s important to note which specific copper peptide was used.
Research applications
GHK-Cu is studied across several areas:
- Skin ageing — effects on collagen, elastin, and dermal thickness
- Wound healing — acceleration of tissue repair
- Hair growth — effects on hair follicle size and cycling
- Lung tissue repair — emerging research on COPD-related applications
- Anti-fibrotic effects — potential to reduce scar tissue
Storage and handling
GHK-Cu should be stored:
- Lyophilised: 2-8°C for short-term, -20°C for long-term
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate and use within 30 days
- Note: The copper complex gives the reconstituted solution a characteristic blue colour — this is normal
Eterna Labs supplies GHK-Cu 100mg for research applications, independently tested to 98%+ purity.
Eterna Labs supplies research-grade skin and beauty peptides across New Zealand. Shop at eternlabs.co.nz/shop.