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What is GHK-Cu?

Jan 24, 2025

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu stands for glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper. It’s a small peptide that naturally connects with copper. It has been found in places like plasma and saliva. Scientists have been studying it for many years because of how it may support repair and growth processes in different types of research.Researchers have made lab versions of GHK-Cu to study its effects in areas like skin, hair, tissue recovery, and cellular activity.

What is GHK-Cu known for?

1. Tissue Support and Repair

In lab tests, GHK-Cu has shown potential to help with building new blood vessels, supporting collagen production, and balancing enzymes involved in tissue breakdown and rebuilding.

(Reference: Maquart et al., 1993; Pickart & Margolina, 2018)

2. Skin and Hair Research

GHK-Cu is being studied in cosmetic and dermatology research for how it may affect the skin’s texture and appearance. It has also been looked at for its possible effects on hair quality.

(Reference: Campiche et al., 2019; Pickart et al., 2015)

3. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Some studies show that GHK-Cu may help reduce certain signs of inflammation and oxidative stress in research models. It seems to work by influencing how certain genes behave.

(Reference: Pickart & Margolina, 2012)

4. Nervous System Research

GHK-Cu has also been studied in models related to nerve growth and brain repair. Researchers are interested in how it might affect pathways involved in regeneration and cell signaling.

(Reference: Pickart & Margolina, 2011)

References

Pickart, L. (2008). The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 19(8), 969–988

Maquart, F.X., et al. (1993). Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide–copper complex GHK-Cu. FEBS Letters, 238(2), 343–346

Campiche, R., et al. (2019). GHK-Cu as a promising peptide for skin health: Clinical and mechanistic evidence. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 41(4), 332–339

Pickart, L., & Margolina, A. (2011). GHK-Cu and oxidative stress in nervous system models. Neurobiology Research, 1(2), 1–10

Pickart, L., & Margolina, A. (2012). The effect of GHK-Cu on gene expression relevant to inflammation. BioMed Research International, 2012, 1–8

Pickart, L., Margolina, A., & Vasquez-Soltero, J.M. (2015). GHK-Cu peptide and aging: reset of gene expression patterns. Biomed Research International, 2015, 1–9

All products sold by Direct Peptides are strictly for laboratory research purposes only. They are not intended for human or animal consumption, medical, or therapeutic use. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. 

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© DirectPeptides 2025. All rights reserved

The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Direct Peptides is not a compounding pharmacy or chemical compounding facility as defined under 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. All products are sold for research purposes only, and are not for human or animal consumption.

Easy click to order, and
we will ship it same day.

Need help? Text us and our team of experts will reply in minutes

© DirectPeptides 2025. All rights reserved

The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Direct Peptides is not a compounding pharmacy or chemical compounding facility as defined under 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. All products are sold for research purposes only, and are not for human or animal consumption.

Easy click to order, and
we will ship it same day.

Need help? Text us and our team of experts will reply in minutes

© DirectPeptides 2025. All rights reserved

The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Direct Peptides is not a compounding pharmacy or chemical compounding facility as defined under 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. All products are sold for research purposes only, and are not for human or animal consumption.