Research background
GHK-Cu: Mechanism & Published Research
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first identified in human plasma by Loren Pickart in the 1970s. It has since accumulated one of the largest published research bodies of any cosmetic peptide, with hundreds of peer-reviewed studies examining its biological activity across multiple tissue and cell models.
In the published literature, researchers have described GHK-Cu as a potent modulator of gene expression. Transcriptomic analyses have identified that GHK-Cu affects the expression of over 4,000 human genes in cell culture models, with observed effects on collagen synthesis, fibronectin production, decorin expression, and matrix metalloproteinase regulation. Investigators studying skin models have reported increased type I and III collagen production following GHK-Cu exposure in human dermal fibroblast cultures.
Hair follicle research has examined GHK-Cu’s role in stimulating dermal papilla cell activity and extending the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle in follicle organ culture models. Published pharmacokinetic studies suggest that the tripeptide-copper complex is stable in physiological conditions and is internalized by cells via endocytosis and copper transporter mechanisms.
Wound-healing research has investigated GHK-Cu’s effects on fibroblast migration, proliferation, and contraction in scratch assay models. Researchers have also examined potential anti-inflammatory properties via modulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 pathways in macrophage models.
Canada Peptide Supply offers GHK-Cu in 50 mg and 100 mg lyophilized vials, verified at ≥99% purity by HPLC with COA included. For skin research applications, topical reconstitution studies typically use aqueous buffer or saline; researchers examining systemic effects typically reconstitute in bacteriostatic water. GHK-Cu is not approved by Health Canada for therapeutic use and is sold strictly for in-vitro research purposes.
Research Use Only Disclaimer: All information on this page is provided for scientific reference purposes. Canada Peptide Supply does not provide medical advice. GHK-Cu is sold strictly for in-vitro laboratory research by qualified investigators. It is not approved by Health Canada for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease.
