GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for collagen and elastin signalling, extracellular-matrix remodelling, wound repair, hair-follicle biology and regulation of inflammatory and oxidative pathways.
This selector presents the PHONYX research format and must not be interpreted as a dose.
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What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is the copper complex of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a naturally occurring human tripeptide found in plasma and other biological fluids. The complex is studied for copper transport and regulation of repair-associated cellular pathways.
Research focuses on collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, extracellular-matrix turnover, wound repair, hair-follicle signalling, inflammation and oxidative stress. Circulating GHK levels have been reported to decline with age.
Copper transport and regenerative signalling
Copper delivery
GHK binds copper and is studied as a biological carrier for copper-dependent enzymes involved in repair and antioxidant defence.
Collagen and elastin
Experimental work associates GHK-Cu with synthesis and organization of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans.
Gene modulation
GHK-Cu has been investigated for broad gene-expression effects involving repair, inflammation, oxidative stress and matrix turnover.
GHK and GHK-Cu
| Form | Composition | Research focus | Distinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| GHK | Gly-His-Lys | Copper binding and signalling | Uncomplexed peptide |
| GHK-Cu | GHK + Cu²⁺ | Matrix repair and copper-dependent pathways | Copper complex |
Major research areas
Connective tissue Collagen and matrix remodelling
Studies examine collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans and matrix-metalloproteinase regulation.
Wound repair Tissue closure and regeneration
Experimental models investigate fibroblast activity, epithelial repair and vascular signalling.
Hair biology Follicle-support research
GHK-Cu is studied for hair-follicle size, scalp matrix support and growth-related signalling.
Inflammation Oxidative and cytokine pathways
Research describes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in cell and tissue models.
Evidence limitation Systemic human data
Controlled human evidence for systemic or subcutaneous use remains limited.
Subcutaneous GHK-Cu research protocol formats
Lower cyclic protocol
1–2 mg once daily for approximately 30 days, followed by reassessment or a protocol-defined break.
Standard protocol
2–5 mg once daily for 2–4 weeks, followed by approximately 2 weeks off.
Extended protocol
5–10 mg, administered 3–5 times weekly for 4–8 weeks, followed by approximately 4 weeks off.
| Research protocol | Typical amount | Frequency | Active period | Protocol break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower cyclic | 1–2 mg | Once daily | 30 days | Protocol-defined |
| Standard | 2–5 mg | Once daily | 2–4 weeks | Approximately 2 weeks |
| Extended | 5–10 mg | 3–5 times weekly | 4–8 weeks | Approximately 4 weeks |
Reported experimental outcomes
Matrix synthesis
Studies report increased collagen production and matrix organization.
Tissue elasticity
Experimental findings associate GHK-Cu with elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis.
Wound remodelling
Fibroblast activity and epithelial repair are recurring research outcomes.
Follicle support
Hair-follicle models examine matrix support and growth-associated signalling.
Known observations and uncertainties
Topical cosmetic experience does not establish the safety of systemic exposure. Controlled human data for subcutaneous protocols remain limited.
Potential concerns include local irritation, sensitivity, copper imbalance and uncertain long-term systemic effects. Purity, sterility and endotoxin burden are separate quality considerations.
An endogenous copper-binding tripeptide
GHK occurs naturally in human plasma and tissues. Complexation with copper creates the characteristic blue GHK-Cu complex and supports copper-dependent biological pathways.
Systemic human pharmacokinetics after subcutaneous exposure have not been comprehensively established.
PHONYX portfolio format
Evidence behind the key claims
Frequently asked questions
What does GHK-Cu mean?
GHK is glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, complexed with copper.
Why is it blue?
The blue colour comes from coordination of the copper ion within the peptide complex.
Is it naturally present in humans?
GHK occurs naturally in plasma and tissues and can bind copper.
What are the main research areas?
Collagen, elastin, wound repair, hair biology, inflammation and oxidative stress.
What systemic ranges are commonly reported?
Research-oriented sources commonly describe 1–2 mg once daily for four to eight weeks. These are not approved doses.
Is 100 mg a single dose?
No. It is the total vial content.
Is GHK the same as GHK-Cu?
No. GHK is the peptide alone; GHK-Cu is the copper-bound complex.
Is injectable GHK-Cu approved?
No. Systemic GHK-Cu is not an approved medicinal product.
How is reconstituted material stored?
Generally at 2–8°C and protected from light under controlled laboratory conditions.
Does topical evidence prove systemic safety?
No. Topical experience cannot establish systemic safety or efficacy.
Research Disclaimer
This compound is presented exclusively for laboratory and scientific research. It is not intended for human consumption, self-administration, diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of disease. Research protocol information is provided only for documentary and educational context and must not be interpreted as medical advice or instructions for use.