Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
For educational and research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human or animal use. Research peptides are Research Use Only (RUO).
Amino Acid Sequence
Gly-His-Lys · Cu²⁺An interactive map of key discoveries, clinical trials, and major findings across 8 research milestones.
GHK was first isolated from human plasma by Pickart and Thaler. Researchers noted that its concentration in blood declined significantly with age — a key early observation.
Timeline compiled from published research literature for educational reference. Dates reflect first major publication or event; subsequent research continues to refine findings.
GHK-Cu is a tiny protein (just three amino acids) that naturally grabs onto a copper atom. Your body makes it — it floats around in your blood, saliva, and other fluids. When you are young, you have lots of it, but levels drop significantly as you age. Scientists are interested in it because it seems to be involved in how your body repairs and maintains itself, particularly skin and tissue.
GHK-Cu is hypothesized to act as a signaling molecule that can reset gene expression patterns. Research suggests it upregulates genes involved in collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense (SOD, GSH), and stem cell activity, while downregulating genes associated with inflammation and tissue destruction. The copper ion is essential for its bioactivity.
Multiple human studies have been conducted, particularly in dermatology. Clinical studies have examined topical GHK-Cu in creams and serums for skin aging, with published results in dermatological journals. It is one of the few peptides with a substantial body of human-applied research data.
Animal studies have explored wound healing, bone repair, and systemic effects of GHK-Cu administration.
Extensive in vitro research has characterized GHK-Cu's effects on fibroblast function, collagen production, gene expression profiling (affecting ~32% of human genes in microarray studies), and antioxidant enzyme activity.
Yes, GHK-Cu is commonly referred to as "copper peptide" in skincare. GHK is the peptide (Gly-His-Lys) and Cu refers to the copper ion it binds to.
The copper ion (Cu²⁺) is essential for GHK-Cu's biological activity. Without copper, the GHK peptide alone has significantly reduced signaling capability. The copper-peptide complex is the active form.
Relatively stable when properly formulated with copper. Topical formulations are widely available in cosmetic products. pH-sensitive — optimal formulation pH around 5.5.
Research Use Only
For educational and research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human or animal use. Research peptides are Research Use Only (RUO).