GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide): A Naturally Occurring Tripeptide in Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration Research
Research Use Only. This article is for scientific and educational reference only. All products are sold for research purposes and are not intended for human or animal consumption.
Overview
GHK-Cu (CAS 49557-75-7), the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK), is a naturally occurring peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It was first isolated from human plasma albumin by Loren Pickart in 1973 and has since been the subject of extensive research into its roles in tissue repair, anti-aging biology, and gene expression regulation.
The peptide has a molecular weight of approximately 340 Da (as the free tripeptide) or 403 Da as the copper complex. GHK's high affinity for copper(II) ions (binding constant ~10¹⁷ M⁻¹) is central to its biological activity, as the copper complex is the biologically active form. Plasma concentrations of GHK decline with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL in young adults to 80 ng/mL in older adults — a decline that has been proposed to contribute to age-related impairment of tissue repair capacity.
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu exerts its biological effects through multiple mechanisms. The copper complex stimulates the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans by fibroblasts, supporting the structural integrity of connective tissue. It activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that remove damaged proteins while simultaneously stimulating synthesis of replacement matrix components, facilitating tissue remodeling.
At the gene expression level, GHK-Cu has been shown to modulate the expression of over 4,000 human genes, with effects on pathways related to inflammation, DNA repair, antioxidant defense, and cell survival. Research by Pickart and colleagues using gene array analysis identified that GHK-Cu upregulates genes associated with tissue repair and downregulates genes associated with inflammation and cancer progression. The peptide also activates the ubiquitin-proteasome system, facilitating the clearance of damaged proteins.
Key Research Findings
Research in wound healing models has consistently demonstrated that GHK-Cu accelerates wound closure, increases tensile strength of healed tissue, and reduces scar formation. Studies in animal models have shown that topical application of GHK-Cu increases collagen synthesis by 70% and stimulates the migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes into wound sites.
In skin aging research, GHK-Cu has been shown to increase skin thickness, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity in both in vitro and in vivo studies. A double-blind clinical study demonstrated significant improvements in skin laxity, clarity, and density following topical GHK-Cu application over 12 weeks.
Research has also explored GHK-Cu's systemic effects, including its anti-inflammatory properties (inhibition of TNF-α and IL-1β production), neuroprotective potential (protection of neurons from oxidative stress), and potential anti-cancer properties (inhibition of cancer cell growth and metastasis in preclinical models).
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value | |---|---| | Tripeptide Sequence | Gly-His-Lys | | Molecular Weight (complex) | ~403 Da | | CAS Number | 49557-75-7 | | Form | Lyophilized powder | | Purity (research grade) | ≥99% HPLC | | Storage | −20°C, protect from light, avoid oxidation |
Research Considerations
GHK-Cu is sensitive to oxidation, and research protocols should minimize exposure to air and light. The peptide is typically reconstituted in sterile water or saline. Its small molecular weight allows for both topical and systemic research applications. Researchers should note that the copper content of GHK-Cu preparations should be accounted for in studies examining copper metabolism or oxidative stress.
Research Use Only. This article is for scientific and educational reference. All products are sold for research purposes only and are not intended for human or animal consumption.