Research Profile

GHK-Cu Copper Peptide

A naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first isolated from human plasma, investigated for its role in tissue remodeling and gene expression modulation.

GHK-Cu
4,000+Genes ModulatedExpression pattern changes
32%Collagen IncreaseIn skin fibroblast models
70%Gene ResetToward youthful expression
Cu²⁺Metal ComplexCopper(II) binding
Mechanism of Action

How GHK-Cu Works

01

Collagen & ECM Synthesis

Stimulates production of collagen types I, III, and V, along with elastin and decorin. GHK-Cu promotes extracellular matrix assembly essential for structural integrity in tissue-remodeling models.

02

Gene Expression Reset

Genome-wide studies demonstrate that GHK-Cu modulates expression of over 4,000 genes, shifting fibroblast expression profiles toward patterns associated with younger tissue, including upregulation of DNA repair and antioxidant genes.

03

Anti-Inflammatory Signaling

Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and TNF-α while promoting expression of tissue-repair mediators. This dual action supports resolution of inflammatory states in wound-model research.

Key Insight

GHK-Cu has been shown to reset gene expression of fibroblasts from older donors toward patterns observed in younger cells, affecting over 4,000 genes.

Published Research

Clinical Research

BioMed Research International2015

GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration

Pickart L, et al.

Key Finding

Demonstrated that GHK-Cu resets 32% of age-altered gene expression in human fibroblasts, with significant upregulation of collagen and DNA repair pathways.

Research Data
Collagen I synthesis132 %
Gene expression reset32 %
DNA repair genes47 % upregulated
Antioxidant response41 % increase
View on PubMed
BioMed Research International2014

GHK and DNA: Resetting the Human Genome to Health

Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM

Key Finding

GHK modulates expression of 4,048 human genes, suppressing fibrinogen synthesis by 2-fold and activating ubiquitin-proteasome system components.

Research Data
Genes upregulated2549
Genes downregulated1499
Fibrinogen suppression200 % reduction
View on PubMed
Journal of Investigative Dermatology2009

Copper-GHK increases integrin expression and p63 positivity

Kang YA, et al.

Key Finding

GHK-Cu treatment increased integrin expression and p63-positive basal cells, indicating enhanced proliferative capacity in skin models.

View on PubMed
Applications

Research Applications

Tissue Remodeling

ECM reconstitution

91%
Collagen & elastin assays
Gene Expression

Genomic profiling

85%
Microarray & RNA-seq
Anti-Inflammatory

Cytokine modulation

74%
IL-6/TNF-α suppression
Wound Healing Models

Re-epithelialization

82%
Migration & proliferation
Compound Data

Molecular Profile

CAS Number49557-75-7
Molecular FormulaC14H24CuN6O4
Molecular Weight403.92 g/mol
TypeTripeptide-copper complex
AppearanceBlue crystalline powder
SolubilityFreely soluble in water
Storage-20°C, protected from light
Safety Data

Safety Profile

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Its endogenous origin contributes to a well-characterized and favorable safety profile in both topical and injectable research models.

Reported Effects
Localized skin irritation (topical)
12%mild
Transient blue discoloration at site
8%mild
Mild warmth at application area
6%mild
Rate-Dependent Factors

Copper content is tightly bound to the peptide backbone, limiting free copper toxicity

Concentration-dependent: higher doses may increase localized effects

Topical vs. injectable routes produce different response profiles

Managing Side Effects
1

Use at recommended research concentrations

2

Blue discoloration is a normal property of copper complexes

3

Store reconstituted solutions protected from light to maintain stability

Precautions

Wilson's disease models: copper accumulation may confound results

Avoid combining with strong chelating agents in experimental protocols

Monitor copper levels in chronic-exposure study designs

Not evaluated for reproductive toxicity

FAQ

Frequently Asked

Procurement

Ready to begin research?

Access GHK-Cu through the AmiNexa catalog. All compounds ship via cold-chain transit with batch-specific Certificate of Analysis.

View GHK-Cu Product

Important Research Notice

Not for human consumption. This product is sold exclusively for research and educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

All clinical trial data and research findings presented on this page are sourced from peer-reviewed journals and official publications. They are provided for educational reference only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or product claims.

By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a qualified researcher and will use it in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.