GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu (glycyl-histidyl-lysine, copper-bound) is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations that decline sharply with age. It has one of the longest research histories of any peptide in dermatological science, largely centered on collagen remodeling and wound-healing signaling.
Mechanism
- Copper delivery & chelation. Binds Cu²⁺ with high affinity, acting as a natural carrier that shuttles copper to tissue sites involved in repair.
- Extracellular matrix signaling. Studied for upregulating collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in dermal fibroblasts, and for modulating matrix metalloproteinase activity during tissue remodeling.
Common research protocols
Dosing information below reflects published research literature. It is not medical advice and is not a treatment plan.
- Route. Subcutaneous injection.
- Research context. Topical and injectable research formulations have both been studied; injectable subcutaneous research use focuses on localized tissue-remodeling signaling rather than systemic effects.
Evidence at a glance
- Regulatory status. Not FDA-approved as a drug; used topically in FDA-registered cosmetic formulations. Injectable use is investigational and research-only.
- What we do not know. Optimal systemic dosing for research purposes; long-term effects of repeated subcutaneous administration.
Reconstitution & handling
Lyophilized peptides ship as freeze-dried powder. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water; refrigerate the reconstituted vial. Use the reconstitution calculator to get syringe-unit readings for your target dose. General reconstitution and syringe guidance in the How We Work page.
Primary-literature list for this guide available on request via contact.