GHK-CU

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for its role in molecular signaling, matrix remodeling, and dynamics of biological pathways. In laboratory and preclinical models, GHK-Cu is associated with modulation of gene expression, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix activity, making it a valuable tool for research within experimental biology.
Pickart L. et al., 2015

History

GHK was first identified in the 1970s in biological plasma samples, where it was observed that its concentration decreases with age. Later research showed that complexing GHK with copper enhances biological activity, particularly in processes related to extracellular matrix dynamics and molecular remodeling.

Over the years, GHK-Cu has been studied extensively in models of epithelial biology, angiogenesis, and systemic regulation of gene expression.
Pickart L., Margolina A., 2018

GHK-Cu Structure

CAS #: 89030-95-5
Molecular formula: C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄
Molecular Weight: 340.9 g/mol
PubChem ID: 5311476

Research findings

GHK-Cu has been studied in structural, epithelial and systemic models. Research highlights its influence on collagen synthesis, extracellular matrix dynamics and molecular remodelling. Studies also mention involvement in epithelial modeling, follicle signaling, and cytokine modulation in preclinical settings.

Key Research Areas

Structural
• Collagen synthesis
• Dynamics of the extracellular matrix
• Connective tissue signaling

Epithelial
• Matrix Remodeling
• Tissue Dynamics
• Follicle Signaling

Systemic
• Cytokine modulation
• Cellular viability
• Pathway dynamics

Together, these findings suggest broad experimental potential for GHK-Cu within structural, epithelial, and systemic pathways. By supporting collagen formation and molecular remodeling while modulating cytokine signaling, GHK-Cu provides a versatile platform for research on matrix dynamics, epithelial biology, and systemic resilience in laboratory settings.

References

Mao S, Huang J, Li J, et al. (2025). Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 16:1551843. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2025.1551843

Wang X, Liu B, Xu Q, et al. (2017). GHK-Cu-liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 25(2), 270–278. https://doi.org/10.1111/wrr.12520

Dou Y, Lee A, Zhu L, Morton J, Ladiges W. (2020). The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide. Aging Pathobiology and Therapeutics, 2(1), 58–61. https://doi.org/10.31491/apt.2020.03.014

Pickart L, Margolina A. (2018). Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in light of new gene data. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 19(7), 1987. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19071987.