The skin peptide — naturally occurs in human plasma, declines with age. 75+ peer-reviewed studies. 99%+ HPLC-verified purity. 3-lab independent COA on every batch.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. First identified in 1973, it has become one of the most extensively studied peptides in skin biology, wound healing, and tissue remodeling research — with over 75 peer-reviewed publications.
Plasma levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This age-related decline has made it a primary subject of longevity and regenerative research. The copper ion is essential for its biological activity, facilitating interactions with collagen, decorin, and multiple growth factor pathways.
GHK-Cu is classified as a research-use-only compound in injectable form. It is not FDA-approved for any therapeutic indication. All references below describe preclinical (in vitro or animal model) research contexts, not human clinical outcomes.
Extensively studied for its role in stimulating collagen I, III, and elastin production in dermal fibroblast models. Research demonstrates GHK-Cu's ability to upregulate extracellular matrix protein synthesis and tissue remodeling genes.
Multiple publications examine GHK-Cu's effects on wound contraction, angiogenesis, and inflammatory modulation in tissue repair models. Research shows accelerated wound closure and improved tissue architecture in preclinical wound models.
Studied for its effects on skin thickness, elasticity, and photoaging markers. The age-related decline of endogenous GHK-Cu makes it particularly relevant to chronological and UV-induced skin aging research.
Preclinical research examines GHK-Cu's effects on hair follicle size, dermal papilla cell proliferation, and the transition from telogen to anagen phase in hair cycle models.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma. It was first isolated in 1973 and has since accumulated over 75 peer-reviewed publications examining its role in collagen synthesis, wound healing, longevity, and hair follicle research.
GHK-Cu is studied extensively in dermal fibroblast and skin aging models. Research examines its ability to stimulate collagen I, III, and elastin synthesis, improve skin thickness and elasticity markers, and modulate genes associated with photoaging and chronological aging.
GHK-Cu is the most extensively studied copper peptide in peer-reviewed literature (75+ publications). Unlike synthetic copper peptide derivatives, GHK-Cu is the naturally occurring form found in human plasma. Its tripeptide structure (Gly-His-Lys) provides optimal copper binding affinity for biological activity.
Research-grade GHK-Cu with 3-lab COA verification is available at SMART MD Peptides in 50mg, 75mg, and 100mg formulations, plus the Glow Blend (GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + TB-500) and Cosmetic Raw 1g for formulation research. Every batch is publicly verifiable at smartmdpeptides.com/verify.
Lyophilized (unreconstituted) GHK-Cu should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. The copper complex is stable in lyophilized form. Once reconstituted, store at 2-8°C and use within the timeframe specified on your lot-specific documentation.
Check the COA before you buy. Compare it against any other supplier's documentation.