GHK-Cu / Studies

Metal complex · 3 amino acids · 401.9 Da

GHK-Cu studies and research data

PepBank has 69 GHK-Cu studies with results. 41 of them gave GHK-Cu, with 226 results, grouped by what the studies measured. In each group, results from studies in people come first. Data as of 2026-10-30.

Searches 226 results and 125 papers. Newer studies from Europe PMC

Results in people

3% of 226 results

Results in animals

123

54% of 226 results

Results in lab cells

42% of 226 results

From computer models

under 1% of 226 results

The molecule

GHK-Cu identity

Identifiers, parent molecule, targets and development stage, from curated data.

GHK-Cu is the 1:1 complex of copper(II) with glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK). GSRS registers it as prezatide copper (UNII 6BJQ43T1I9, C14H22N6O4.Cu). MeSH describes the GHK tripeptide as found in human plasma. Its INCI name is copper tripeptide-1. No receptor target is established in the identity sources checked. One phase 2 trial of a topical GHK-Cu gel for skin wounds started in 2026.

Kind: Metal complex · 3 residues
Identifiers: PubChem CID10111685 (opens in a new tab)71587328 (opens in a new tab)UNII6BJQ43T1I9 (opens in a new tab)DrugBankDB14683 (opens in a new tab)CAS89030-95-5
Parent: Complex of GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine; prezatide)GSRS PREZATIDE COPPER has PARENT->SALT/SOLVATE relationships to PREZATIDE (39TG2H631E) and CUPRIC CATION (8CBV67279L); its active moiety is PREZATIDE.
Development: Phase 2No drug developer identified. Trial sponsor: Hudson Biotech (NCT07437586).NCT07437586: phase 2, randomized, vehicle-controlled split-wound study of a 0.1% w/w topical GHK-Cu gel on acute skin wounds in healthy adults, recruiting, start 2026-02-02. NCT05932732 (phase 4 label) tests a facial device with a serum that lists 'Copper Peptide Cu-GHK' among several ingredients; it is not a GHK-Cu drug trial. NCT07706361 measures circulating GHK and GHK-Cu after a patch product (not yet recruiting). Source (opens in a new tab)

Targets

No molecular target is recorded for this peptide.

Sequence and structure

Residues, differences from the parent, calculated properties and 3D structure. Source values and calculated values are shown separately.

Sequence

3 amino acids · 1 modification

GHK

Alignment to GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine; prezatide)

Calculated from the two sequences. Curated notes are shown as given.

3 of 3 aligned residues identical (100%) · GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine; prezatide) 1–3

Top row: GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine; prezatide) (parent)
Bottom row: GHK-Cu

GHK

Same as parent
Substituted
Non-canonical or D-form
Added
Gap
Modified side chain or end

No differences in the aligned region.

Basis: GSRS PREZATIDE COPPER has PARENT->SALT/SOLVATE relationships to PREZATIDE (39TG2H631E) and CUPRIC CATION (8CBV67279L); its active moiety is PREZATIDE.

Calculated from the two sequences with @pepdb/chem alignToParent (ungapped unless a gap scores higher). The record’s curated notes are shown as given.

Properties

From identity sources

Formula: C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄
Molecular weight: 401.91 g/mol
Monoisotopic mass: 401.0999 Da

GSRS UNII 6BJQ43T1I9(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
GSRS UNII DL1TR6W6VM(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
GSRS UNII 39TG2H631E(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
PubChem CID 10111685(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
PubChem CID 71587328(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08
PubChem CID 133697840(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-08

Calculated from the sequence

pKa set

Some values cannot be calculated. A modification changes this value and is not modeled here (for example a lipid, metal or linker).

Average mass: Not calculated
Monoisotopic mass: Not calculated
Isoelectric point (pI): Not calculated
Net charge at pH 7.4: Not calculated
GRAVY (hydropathy): −2.500; Mean Kyte-Doolittle hydropathy · Kyte and Doolittle 1982; Negative: hydrophilic on average.
Extinction coefficient, 280 nm (Cys reduced): 0 M⁻¹ cm⁻¹; 5500 x Trp + 1490 x Tyr · Pace et al. 1995 (ExPASy ProtParam); No Trp or Tyr: absorbance at 280 nm cannot measure this peptide.
Instability index: 85.60; Dipeptide instability weights (DIWV) · Guruprasad et al. 1990; Above 40: classed as possibly unstable (ExPASy).
Aliphatic index: 0.0; Mole % A + 2.9 V + 3.9 (I + L) · Ikai 1980
Boman index: 3.09 kcal/mol; Mean solubility value (negated) · Boman 2003; Above 2.48: high protein-binding potential (Boman).
Hydrophobic moment (μH): Not calculated; The sequence is too short for this method.

Not included: metal complex. Mass, charge and pI are not calculated; use the identity-source values.
Defined and validated for proteins; use with care for short peptides.
Assumes an ideal alpha helix. Many short peptides are not helical.

@pepdb/chem 0.2.0 · EMBOSS pKa set · ExPASy residue masses

Net charge by pH

No charge curve

A modification changes this value and is not modeled here (for example a lipid, metal or linker).

Composition

Positive67% (2)H K
Special33% (1)G

3 residues. Each residue counts in one class; F and W count as aromatic.

A Ala0 · 0%

I Ile0 · 0%

L Leu0 · 0%

M Met0 · 0%

V Val0 · 0%

F Phe0 · 0%

W Trp0 · 0%

Y Tyr0 · 0%

H His1 · 33%

K Lys1 · 33%

R Arg0 · 0%

D Asp0 · 0%

E Glu0 · 0%

N Asn0 · 0%

Q Gln0 · 0%

S Ser0 · 0%

T Thr0 · 0%

C Cys0 · 0%

G Gly1 · 33%

P Pro0 · 0%

3D structure

No 3D structure

No experimental structure (PDB) and no UniProt entry for an AlphaFold model are listed for this peptide. Synthetic peptides often have neither. The sequence view above is the reference.

2D structure

Draws the structure in your browser with RDKit (about 2.3 MB, loaded once).

SMILES fromPubChem CID 10111685(opens in a new tab)

C1=C(N=C[N-]1)C[C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)[O-])NC(=O)CN.[Cu+2]

Results by area

GHK-Cu results by year and outcome

Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

Studies by year

69 of 125 studies have results (55%), published 1988 to 2026. Top row: every study. Bottom row: studies with results about GHK-Cu, by class. The rows use different scales.

Studies
Human
Animal
Lab
Computer model
Natural levels, tool or combination only

Studies125 in all, 1982 to 2026

Studies with results69 in all, 1988 to 2026

Retracted studies are left out. A study with results in two classes counts in both.

AI wrote and checked these results. AI can make mistakes, so check important results against the source.

What the studies measured

People first in each area, then animals, then lab cells. Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

GHK-Cu studies on skin, hair and wounds

71 results · people 7 · animals 23 · lab 41

Top 5 of 71 results

In patients after laser skin resurfacing, skin care with GHK‑Cu did not clear redness earlier than care without it.Archives of facial plastic surgery, 2006
In irradiated rats, GHK‑Cu gel did not significantly change the area of poorly supplied skin compared with control ointment.Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery, 2013
In mouse cells, GHK‑Cu helped gut lining cells heal after damage by DSS.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025
A review of studies found that GHK‑Cu was linked to higher patient satisfaction after laser skin resurfacing.Aesthetic surgery journal, 2026
In rats, GHK‑Cu injected into wound chambers raised wound chamber dry weight, more at higher concentrations.The Journal of clinical investigation, 1993

GHK-Cu studies on immune system and inflammation

37 results · people 0 · animals 28 · lab 9

Top 5 of 37 results

In mice with lung fibrosis, GHK‑Cu lowered the inflammation signal TNF-α in lung fluid.Life sciences, 2020
In animal and cell tests of induced inflammation, the GHK‑Cu filler gel lowered inflammatory markers.Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2025
In mice with silicosis, GHK‑Cu reduced lung scarring.Redox biology, 2024
In mice with Alzheimer's-like disease, GHK‑Cu given through the nose lowered brain inflammation linked to MCP1.Aging pathobiology and therapeutics, 2024
In cells, the carrier system with copper peptide reduced inflammation caused by oxidative damage.Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2024

GHK-Cu studies on cells, genes and aging

28 results · people 0 · animals 19 · lab 9

Top 5 of 28 results

In roundworms, GHK‑Cu extended lifespan.Biogerontology, 2026
In animal and cell tests of induced inflammation, the GHK‑Cu filler gel lowered reactive oxygen species.Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2025
In mice exposed to cigarette smoke, GHK‑Cu lowered a marker of oxidative damage in lung tissue.Frontiers in molecular biosciences, 2022
In roundworms, GHK‑Cu raised the electrical potential of mitochondria, the cell's energy units.Biogerontology, 2026
In muscle cells exposed to smoke extract, copper peptide raised the amount of mitochondria.Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2023

GHK-Cu studies on receptors and cell signals

35 results · people 0 · animals 16 · lab 18 · computer models 1

Top 5 of 35 results

In roundworms, GHK‑Cu switched on the DAF-16 stress-response pathway.Biogerontology, 2026
In mice with lung fibrosis, GHK‑Cu acted on several cell signalling pathways; the abstract does not give the direction for each.Life sciences, 2020
In mice with burns, GHK‑Cu-liposomes increased a marker of blood vessel cells (CD31) in skin.Wound repair and regeneration, 2017
In mice with induced colitis and in mouse cells, GHK‑Cu raised levels of the protein SIRT1.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025
In mice with induced colitis, GHK‑Cu lowered levels of RORγt in the colon.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025

GHK-Cu studies on muscles and tendons

11 results · people 0 · animals 9 · lab 2

Top 5 of 11 results

In rats after ACL surgery, knee looseness was smaller with GHK‑Cu than with saline at 6 weeks.Journal of orthopaedic research, 2015
In mice exposed to cigarette smoke, copper peptide reduced the loss of muscle weight.Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2023
In rats after ACL surgery, knee looseness did not differ between GHK‑Cu and saline at 12 weeks.Journal of orthopaedic research, 2015
In mice exposed to cigarette smoke, copper peptide increased the size of muscle fibres.Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2023
In rats after ACL surgery, the repaired graft was stiffer with 0.3 mg/ml GHK‑Cu than with saline at 6 weeks.Journal of orthopaedic research, 2015

GHK-Cu studies on lungs and breathing

9 results · people 0 · animals 9 · lab 0

Top 3 of 9 results

In mice with lung fibrosis, GHK‑Cu reduced inflammatory and scarring changes in the lung.Life sciences, 2020
In mice exposed to cigarette smoke, GHK‑Cu reduced lung damage typical of emphysema.Frontiers in molecular biosciences, 2022
In mice with asthma, GHK‑Cu reduced collagen build-up around the airways compared with PBS.Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 2023

GHK-Cu studies on stomach and gut

8 results · people 0 · animals 6 · lab 2

Top 3 of 8 results

In mice with induced colitis, GHK‑Cu improved the disease activity score.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025
In mice with induced colitis, GHK‑Cu reduced swelling of the colon.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025
In mice with induced colitis, GHK‑Cu reduced shortening of the colon.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025

GHK-Cu studies on heart and blood vessels

6 results · people 0 · animals 6 · lab 0

Top 3 of 6 results

In zebrafish larvae exposed to copper, GHK reduced heart rhythm problems, even at the lowest concentration of 1 nM.Biomolecules, 2020
In zebrafish larvae, copper with GHK did not significantly change stroke volume.Biomolecules, 2020
In zebrafish larvae, copper with GHK did not significantly change ejection fraction.Biomolecules, 2020

GHK-Cu studies on daily life and fitness

2 results · people 0 · animals 2 · lab 0

2 results

In roundworms, GHK‑Cu improved movement.Biogerontology, 2026
In mice exposed to cigarette smoke, copper peptide improved grip strength.Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2023

GHK-Cu studies on blood levels and clearance

6 results · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 5

Top 3 of 6 results

In preclinical studies in a review, microneedles and liposomes improved how well GHK‑Cu crossed the skin and worked.Aesthetic surgery journal, 2026
In lab tests, GHK‑Cu passed through human skin pretreated with microneedles but almost not through intact skin.Pharmaceutical research, 2015
In lab tests on human skin, the copper tripeptide crossed the skin at a measurable rate.Inflammation research, 2010

GHK-Cu studies on side effects

5 results · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 4

Top 4 of 5 results

In mice with silicosis, GHK‑Cu caused no significant toxicity in the whole body.Redox biology, 2024
In cells, GHK‑Cu did not damage skin cells.Scientific reports, 2016
In human skin cells in the lab, none of the tested factors, including copper peptide, was found toxic.Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open, 2020
In lab tests, GHK‑Cu applied after microneedle pretreatment caused no obvious skin irritation.Pharmaceutical research, 2015

GHK-Cu studies on brain and nerves

1 result · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 0

1 result

In mice with Alzheimer's-like disease, GHK‑Cu given through the nose reduced amyloid plaques in the brain.Aging pathobiology and therapeutics, 2024

GHK-Cu studies on memory and thinking

1 result · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 0

1 result

In mice with Alzheimer's-like disease, GHK‑Cu given through the nose delayed memory and thinking problems.Aging pathobiology and therapeutics, 2024

GHK-Cu studies on weight and appetite

1 result · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 0

1 result

In mice with induced colitis, GHK‑Cu lessened weight loss.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025

GHK-Cu studies on bones and joints

4 results · people 0 · animals 0 · lab 4

Top 3 of 4 results

In cells, microspheres grafted with GHK‑Cu increased bone-like mineral formation more than plain microspheres.Biomaterials advances, 2026
In cells, microspheres grafted with GHK‑Cu raised the bone-gene Runx2 more than plain microspheres.Biomaterials advances, 2026
In cells, microspheres grafted with GHK‑Cu raised the bone-gene OPN more than plain microspheres.Biomaterials advances, 2026

GHK-Cu studies on infections

1 result · people 0 · animals 0 · lab 1

1 result

In lab tests, the scaffold coated with GHK‑Cu blocked bacteria better than the uncoated scaffold and the glass-coated scaffolds.Progress in biomaterials, 2020

Trials and papers

GHK-Cu trials

Registered trials that test the peptide, with phase, status and dates. A dot marks trials with posted results.

StatusPhase

1 trial match. Highest phase first. Data from ClinicalTrials.gov.

Trials on this page (1 of 1)

1 trial · 1 ongoing

Completed
Ongoing
Not yet recruiting
Stopped
Estimated dates (est.)
Results posted

2026202720282029

Ph 2
CuHeal
NCT07437586
2 Feb 2026 to est. 17 Mar 2028

1 trial · 1 ongoing · source ClinicalTrials.gov (opens in a new tab)

RecruitingPhase 2NCT07437586

Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing

Hudson Biotechn = 602 Feb 2026 to est. 17 Mar 2028

Acute Standardized Cutaneous Wounds (Punch-biopsy Wounds)

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 27 Feb 2026

2 more mention it but do not test it. They are not trials of GHK-Cu: they only measure it (a blood level or an eligibility term) or name it in their text.

Papers

Studies on this peptide. Some have results. The others have none yet.

Sort

Design

125 studies match. Retracted studies are left out.

Showing 21 of 125 studiesquery qry_ba5ce79e64569a52ae7b9341

Studies with results

69 studies in all, 14 on this page

In vitro (cell-free) · 2007

4 results

Redox chemistry of copper-amyloid-beta: the generation of hydroxyl radical in the presence of ascorbate is linked to redox-potentials and aggregation state.

Guilloreau et al. 2007Chembiochem : a European journal of chemical biologycited by 204

PMID 17577900DOI 10.1002/cbic.200700111PUB-17577900

Full text at the publisher3 results where GHK-Cu was given (plus 1 on tools or combinations, listed separately)

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In vitro (cells) · 1988

2 results

Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.

Maquart et al. 1988FEBS letterscited by 118

PMID 3169264DOI 10.1016/0014-5793(88)80509-xPUB-03169264

Full text at the publisher2 results where GHK-Cu was given

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Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 1993

10 results

In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds.

Maquart et al. 1993The Journal of clinical investigationcited by 84

PMID 8227353PMC288419DOI 10.1172/jci116842PUB-08227353

Rights unknown10 results where GHK-Cu was given

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In vitro (cells) · 2000

5 results

The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures.

Siméon et al. 2000Life sciencescited by 70

PMID 11045606DOI 10.1016/s0024-3205(00)00803-1PUB-11045606

Full text at the publisher5 results where GHK-Cu was given

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Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2020

8 results

Protective effects of GHK-Cu in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation pathways.

Ma et al. 2020Life sciencescited by 55

PMID 31809714DOI 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.117139PUB-31809714

Full text at the publisher8 results where GHK-Cu was given

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Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2016

14 results

The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice.

Park et al. 2016Oncotargetcited by 48

PMID 27517151PMC5295439DOI 10.18632/oncotarget.11168PUB-27517151

CC BY14 results where GHK-Cu was given

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In vitro (cells) · 1992

6 results

Stimulation of sulfated glycosaminoglycan synthesis by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.

Wegrowski et al. 1992Life sciencescited by 42

PMID 1522753DOI 10.1016/0024-3205(92)90504-iPUB-01522753

Full text at the publisher6 results where GHK-Cu was given

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In vitro (cells) · 2005

5 results

Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts.

Pollard et al. 2005Archives of facial plastic surgerycited by 40

PMID 15655171DOI 10.1001/archfaci.7.1.27PUB-15655171

Full text at the publisher5 results where GHK-Cu was given

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Ex vivo tissue · 2015

4 results

Microneedle-Mediated Delivery of Copper Peptide Through Skin.

Li et al. 2015Pharmaceutical researchcited by 35

PMID 25690343DOI 10.1007/s11095-015-1652-zPUB-25690343

Full text at the publisher3 results where GHK-Cu was given (plus 1 on tools or combinations, listed separately)

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In vitro (cells) · 2016

2 results

Selected Biomarkers Revealed Potential Skin Toxicity Caused by Certain Copper Compounds.

Li et al. 2016Scientific reportscited by 30

PMID 27892491PMC5124859DOI 10.1038/srep37664PUB-27892491

CC BY2 results where GHK-Cu was given

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In vitro (cells) · 2007

7 results

In vitro observations on the influence of copper peptide aids for the LED photoirradiation of fibroblast collagen synthesis.

Huang et al. 2007Photomedicine and laser surgerycited by 26

PMID 17603859DOI 10.1089/pho.2007.2062PUB-17603859

Full text at the publisher3 results where GHK-Cu was given (plus 4 on tools or combinations, listed separately)

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Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2017

11 results

GHK-Cu-liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

Wang et al. 2017Wound repair and regeneration : official publication of the Wound Healing Society [and] the European Tissue Repair Societycited by 26

PMID 28370978DOI 10.1111/wrr.12520PUB-28370978

Full text at the publisher11 results where GHK-Cu was given

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Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2023

15 results

Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu²⁺ rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway.

Deng et al. 2023Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and musclecited by 26

PMID 36905132PMC10235902DOI 10.1002/jcsm.13213PUB-36905132

Free to read · publisher termsCC BY-NC-ND11 results where GHK-Cu was given (plus 4 on natural levels, listed separately)

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In vitro (cell-free) · 2023

5 results

Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application.

Dymek et al. 2023Pharmaceuticscited by 21

PMID 37896245PMC10610410DOI 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102485PUB-37896245

CC BY2 results where GHK-Cu was given (plus 3 on tools or combinations, listed separately)

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More studies

29 studies in all, 7 on this page

PubMed tag: none · 2011

X-ray and solution structures of Cu(II) GHK and Cu(II) DAHK complexes: influence on their redox properties.

Hureau et al. 2011Chemistry (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)cited by 91

PMID 21780203DOI 10.1002/chem.201100751PUB-21780203

Full text at the publisher

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PubMed tag: none · 1994

Enhanced healing of ulcers in patients with diabetes by topical treatment with glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine copper.

Mulder et al. 1994Wound repair and regeneration : official publication of the Wound Healing Society [and] the European Tissue Repair Societycited by 37

PMID 17147644DOI 10.1046/j.1524-475x.1994.20406.xPUB-17147644

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PubMed tag: none · 1982

Structure of the Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine--copper(II) complex in solution.

Freedman et al. 1982Biochemistrycited by 32

PMID 6291585DOI 10.1021/bi00262a004PUB-06291585

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PubMed tag: none · 2011

Corrected

Human skin penetration of a copper tripeptide in vitro as a function of skin layer.

Hostynek et al. 2011Inflammation research : official journal of the European Histamine Research Society ... [et al.]cited by 31

PMID 20721598PMC3016279DOI 10.1007/s00011-010-0238-9PUB-20721598

Free to read · publisher termsCC BY-NC

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Indexing hint: In vitro study · 1983

Inhibition of the growth of cultured cells and an implanted fibrosarcoma by aroylhydrazone analogs of the Gly-His-Lys-Cu(II) complex.

Pickart et al. 1983Biochemical pharmacologycited by 27

PMID 6661260DOI 10.1016/0006-2952(83)90164-8PUB-06661260

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PubMed tag: none · 2021

Intermediate Cu(II)-Thiolate Species in the Reduction of Cu(II)GHK by Glutathione: A Handy Chelate for Biological Cu(II) Reduction.

Ufnalska et al. 2021Inorganic chemistrycited by 26

PMID 34781677PMC8653159DOI 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.1c02669PUB-34781677

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PubMed tag: none · 2020

Ternary Cu(II) Complex with GHK Peptide and Cis-Urocanic Acid as a Potential Physiologically Functional Copper Chelate.

Bossak-Ahmad et al. 2020International journal of molecular sciencescited by 22

PMID 32867146PMC7503498DOI 10.3390/ijms21176190PUB-32867146

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No result for GHK-Cu (4 studies on this page, 27 in all)

These studies name GHK-Cu but give no result for it (for example, the results concern another peptide in the study).

PubMed tag: Review · 2008

The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.

Pickart et al. 2008Journal of biomaterials science. Polymer editioncited by 124

PMID 18644225DOI 10.1163/156856208784909435PUB-18644225

Full text at the publisher

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PubMed tag: review-article, Review · 2018

Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data.

Pickart et al. 2018International journal of molecular sciencescited by 87

PMID 29986520PMC6073405DOI 10.3390/ijms19071987PUB-29986520

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PubMed tag: review-article, Review · 2012

The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging: implications for cognitive health.

Pickart et al. 2012Oxidative medicine and cellular longevitycited by 57

PMID 22666519PMC3359723DOI 10.1155/2012/324832PUB-22666519

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PubMed tag: none · 2020

The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide.

Dou et al. 2020Aging pathobiology and therapeuticscited by 22

PMID 35083444PMC8789089DOI 10.31491/apt.2020.03.014PUB-35083444

Rights unknown

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Newer studies

PepBank reads each paper before it shows the results. This search looks in Europe PMC for newer papers that PepBank has not read yet.

GHK-Cu studies: 69 papers with results

Page 1 of 2

Effects of topical copper tripeptide complex on CO2 laser-resurfaced skin.
Miller TR · Archives of facial plastic surgery · 2006
Randomized controlled trial · 4 results
The Regenerative Potential of GHK-Cu in Aesthetic Medicine.
Mokhtar J · Aesthetic surgery journal · 2026
Systematic review · 8 results
Effects of topical copper tripeptide complex on wound healing in an irradiated rat model.
Parker NP · Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery · 2013
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 4 results
In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds.
Maquart FX · The Journal of clinical investigation · 1993
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 10 results
Protective effects of GHK-Cu in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation pathways.
Ma WH · Life sciences · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice.
Park JR · Oncotarget · 2016
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 14 results
Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway.
Deng M · Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 15 results
GHK-Cu-liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
Wang X · Wound repair and regeneration : official publication of the Wound Healing Society [and] the European Tissue Repair Society · 2017
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 11 results
In situ photo-crosslinkable hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel embedded with GHK peptide nanofibers for bioactive wound healing.
Lee S · Acta biomaterialia · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · 10 results
Expression and Purification of Recombinant GHK Tripeptides Are Able to Protect against Acute Cardiotoxicity from Exposure to Waterborne-Copper in Zebrafish.
Hsiao CD · Biomolecules · 2020
Animal study (in vivo) · zebrafish · 8 results
Tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu (II) transiently improved healing outcome in a rat model of ACL reconstruction.
Fu SC · Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society · 2015
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 7 results
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ attenuates cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary emphysema and inflammation by reducing oxidative stress pathway.
Zhang Q · Frontiers in molecular biosciences · 2022
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 14 results
An injectable hydroxyapatite microsphere filler loaded with GHK-Cu tripeptide for anti-Inflammatory and antioxidant.
Hu D · Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · 6 results
The glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ tripeptide complex attenuates lung inflammation and fibrosis in silicosis by targeting peroxiredoxin 6.
Bian Y · Redox biology · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 5 results
Relief of ovalbumin-induced airway remodeling by the glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ tripeptide complex via activation of SIRT1 in airway epithelial cells.
Zhang Q · Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie · 2023
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
Behavioral and neuropathological features of Alzheimer's disease are attenuated in 5xFAD mice treated with intranasal GHK peptide.
Tucker M · Aging pathobiology and therapeutics · 2024
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 3 results
Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms.
Mao S · Frontiers in pharmacology · 2025
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 20 results
The GHK-Cu delays aging in Caenorhabditis elegans via coordinated regulation of mitochondrial function and activation of DAF-16/SKN-1 pathways.
Wen H · Biogerontology · 2026
Animal study (in vivo) · caenorhabditis elegans · 18 results
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ (GHK-Cu) Attenuates CuSO4 or LPS induced-inflammation in Zebrafish larvae model.
Hu J · European journal of pharmacology · 2026
Animal study (in vivo) · zebrafish · 10 results
Microneedle-Mediated Delivery of Copper Peptide Through Skin.
Li H · Pharmaceutical research · 2015
Ex vivo tissue · 4 results
Human skin retention and penetration of a copper tripeptide in vitro as function of skin layer towards anti-inflammatory therapy.
Hostynek JJ · Inflammation research : official journal of the European Histamine Research Society ... [et al.] · 2010
Ex vivo tissue · 3 results
Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.
Maquart FX · FEBS letters · 1988
In vitro (cells) · 2 results
The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures.
Siméon A · Life sciences · 2000
In vitro (cells) · 5 results
Stimulation of sulfated glycosaminoglycan synthesis by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.
Wegrowski Y · Life sciences · 1992
In vitro (cells) · 6 results
Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts.
Pollard JD · Archives of facial plastic surgery · 2005
In vitro (cells) · 5 results
Selected Biomarkers Revealed Potential Skin Toxicity Caused by Certain Copper Compounds.
Li H · Scientific reports · 2016
In vitro (cells) · 2 results
In vitro observations on the influence of copper peptide aids for the LED photoirradiation of fibroblast collagen synthesis.
Huang PJ · Photomedicine and laser surgery · 2007
In vitro (cells) · 7 results
QR678 & QR678 Neo Hair Growth Formulations: A Cellular Toxicity & Animal Efficacy Study.
Kapoor R · Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open · 2020
In vitro (cells) · 4 results
The effect of copper tripeptide and tretinoin on growth factor production in a serum-free fibroblast model.
McCormack MC · Archives of facial plastic surgery · 2001
In vitro (cells) · 2 results
Effect of GLY-HIS-LYS and its copper complex on TGF-β secretion in normal human dermal fibroblasts.
Gruchlik A · Acta poloniae pharmaceutica · 2014
In vitro (cells) · 1 result
Differential Effects of Histidine and Histidinamide versus Cysteine and Cysteinamide on Copper Ion-Induced Oxidative Stress and Cytotoxicity in HaCaT Keratinocytes.
Ha JW · Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) · 2023
In vitro (cells) · 1 result
Enhanced biological properties of collagen/chitosan-coated poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffold by surface modification with GHK-Cu peptide and 58S bioglass.
Molavi AM · Progress in biomaterials · 2020
In vitro (cells) · 2 results
Effect of Peptides on the Synthesis, Properties and Wound Healing Capacity of Silver Nanoparticles.
Papaioannou A · Pharmaceutics · 2023
In vitro (cells) · 4 results
Rigid-flexible nanocarriers loaded with active peptides for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications in skin.
Wang Y · Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces · 2024
In vitro (cells) · 6 results
Hierarchical regulation and mechanism of "open-hollow-fibrous network" structures: Osteogenic-angiogenic coupling responses of poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) microspheres.
Su J · Biomaterials advances · 2026
In vitro (cells) · 6 results
Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed-Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK-Cu.
Wang J · Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI) · 2026
In vitro (cells) · 5 results
A Torilis japonica Extract-GHK-Cu Complex Attenuates Th2 Cytokines and Promotes Keratinocyte Recovery: A Potential Antioxidant Strategy for Atopic Dermatitis.
Jeon S · Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) · 2026
In vitro (cells) · 8 results
Multi-Target Restoration of Dermal Elastic Fibers Through Elastin Upregulation, Elastase Suppression, and Scaffold Reinforcement.
Ye S · Current issues in molecular biology · 2026
In vitro (cells) · 4 results
Redox chemistry of copper-amyloid-beta: the generation of hydroxyl radical in the presence of ascorbate is linked to redox-potentials and aggregation state.
Guilloreau L · Chembiochem : a European journal of chemical biology · 2007
In vitro (cell-free) · 4 results
Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application.
Dymek M · Pharmaceutics · 2023
In vitro (cell-free) · 5 results
ESI-MS study of the mechanism of glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu(II) complex transport through model membrane of stratum corneum.
Mazurowska L · Talanta · 2007
In vitro (cell-free) · 2 results
An Assessment of the Safety, Efficacy, and Tolerability of a Novel Scalp Treatment Regimen Combining a Hydroxy Acid-Based Scrub and Copper Tripeptide Serum in the Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis in Adults.
Patel MN · Cureus · 2024
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 13 results
In vitro evaluation of compression-coated glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu(II) (GHK-Cu2+)-loaded microparticles for colonic drug delivery.
Uğurlu T · Drug development and industrial pharmacy · 2011
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 10 results
Copper Complexes with New Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Hyaluronan Conjugates Show Antioxidant Properties and Osteogenic and Angiogenic Synergistic Effects.
Greco V · Bioconjugate chemistry · 2025
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 8 results
Intradermal injections of a hair growth factor formulation for enhancement of human hair regrowth - safety and efficacy evaluation in a first-in-man pilot clinical study.
Kapoor R · Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology · 2018
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 15 results
Golgi-targeted copper delivery strategy via enhancing copper-dependent proteins' activity for fascia regeneration.
Wang R · Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society · 2026
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 6 results
Physicochemical characterization of native glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine tripeptide for wound healing and anti-aging: a preformulation study for dermal delivery.
Badenhorst T · Pharmaceutical development and technology · 2016
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 5 results
Improved laccase production by Trametes versicolor using Copper-Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine as a novel and high-efficient inducer.
Wang F · Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology · 2023
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 5 results
Copper peptide activated cascade catalysis for glucose regulation and hypoxia reversing in infected diabetic wound healing.
Huang ZJ · Materials today. Bio · 2026
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 5 results
Efficacy and Safety Assessment of ThriveCo Scar Fader Gel With Scarcede™ in the Treatment of Skin Scars.
Patel MN · Cureus · 2025
Not a test of GHK-Cu alone · 5 results

Status and safety

Regulatory and safety

Approval and sport status, and the safety outcomes reported in study results. Laws and labels change, so check the regulator for the current status.

Regulatory status by jurisdiction, with date and source
Jurisdiction	Body	Status	As of	Source
US	FDA	No Drugs@FDA record found (openFDA search for prezatide returned no matches on 2026-10-08). DrugBank ID DB14683 is from the PubChem annotation; the DrugBank page could not be fetched (HTTP 403).	8 Oct 2026	fda.gov (opens in a new tab)
EU	EMA	No centrally authorised medicine and no orphan designation for this substance in the EMA data files (medicines and orphan designations, timestamp 2026-10-08). National authorisations were not checked.	8 Oct 2026	ema.europa.eu (opens in a new tab)
Sport	WADA	Banned in sport (WADA S0) S0 covers substances not approved for human use; GHK-Cu is not named on the List.	2026 List	wada-ama.org (opens in a new tab)

Safety outcomes

5 safety results for GHK-Cu.

No safety results from studies in people

The safety results below come from animal or lab studies. They do not show what happens in people.

Animal evidence· 1

In mice with experimental silicosis, GHK‑Cu treatment was without significant systemic toxicity.
Animal study (in vivo)mouse

Lab evidence· 4

In a keratinocyte-based model, GHK‑Cu was not cytotoxic.
In vitro (cells)
In a keratinocyte-based model, GHK‑Cu did not significantly change expression of skin irritation-related biomarkers.
In vitro (cells)
In human keratinocyte and fibroblast cell assays, all the factors, including copper tripeptide 1, were found to be safe.
In vitro (cells)human
No obvious signs of skin irritation were observed with GHK‑Cu after microneedle pretreatment.
Other design

Doses studied · 12

The doses that these studies used. They are not recommendations.

0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayAnimal
Species
mouse
Route
intraperitoneal
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
0.2 and 2 mg/kgAnimal
Species
mouse
Route
Not reported
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
1 nMAnimal
Species
zebrafish
Route
Not reported
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
0.3 or 3 mg/mlAnimal
Species
rat
Route
intra-articular injection
Duration
once weekly for 4 weeks, from week 2
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
0.3 mg/mlAnimal
Species
rat
Route
intra-articular injection
Duration
once weekly for 4 weeks, from week 2
Design
Animal study (in vivo)
0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/dayAnimal
Species
mouse
Route
intraperitoneal
Duration
Not reported
Design
Animal study (in vivo)

Doses studied in the study results, as given in the studies.
Dose as reported	Class	Species	Route	Duration	Design
0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/day	Animal	mouse	intraperitoneal	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo)
0.2 and 2 mg/kg	Animal	mouse	Not reported	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo)
1 nM	Animal	zebrafish	Not reported	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo)
0.3 or 3 mg/ml	Animal	rat	intra-articular injection	once weekly for 4 weeks, from week 2	Animal study (in vivo)
0.3 mg/ml	Animal	rat	intra-articular injection	once weekly for 4 weeks, from week 2	Animal study (in vivo)
0.2, 2 and 20 μg/g/day	Animal	mouse	intraperitoneal	Not reported	Animal study (in vivo)

6 of 12 shown

PepBank is a research reference. Talk to a doctor before you use any peptide.

Data

Data and API

Data version, change history and code for this peptide.

Data version 30856030 Oct 2026

Peptide

Peptide id: PEP-000007
Peptide version: 7
Peptide hash: e4939d67231e2b27…
Data version: 308560

Latest changes

27 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 256686
22 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 254518
21 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 213614
14 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 194688
13 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 173537
12 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 165112

For developers

curl -s https://pepbank.io/v1/briefs/ghk-cu

Evidence summary for GHK-Cu: counts by class, key results with sources, notices, data version.

Peptide as JSON Evidence summary as JSON

Compare

AHK-Cu vs GHK-Cu

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Skin and hairSkin and wound	Human: 7 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 2 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	Lab: 7 results from 4 studies: 3 increase, 1 decrease, 2 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	14
Wound healingSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 23 results from 6 studies: 16 increase, 1 decrease, 5 no significant change, 1 mixed. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 34 results from 12 studies: 24 increase, 4 decrease, 4 no significant change, 1 mixed, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	57
Inflammation markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 27 results from 10 studies: 2 increase, 25 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 9 results from 6 studies: 2 increase, 7 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	36
Receptor activity and mechanismSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 16 results from 6 studies: 10 increase, 5 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 18 results from 8 studies: 8 increase, 6 decrease, 2 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	Computer model: 1 result from 1 study: 1 not reported. Strongest design: In silico	35
Oxidative stressRespiratory	No results	Animal: 9 results from 3 studies: 5 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 4 results from 1 study: 3 increase, 1 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	13
Lung injury and fibrosisRespiratory	No results	Animal: 9 results from 3 studies: 9 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	9
Aging markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 4 increase, 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 2 results from 1 study: 2 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	8
Gastrointestinal protectionGastrointestinal	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 2 results from 1 study: 2 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	8
Mitochondrial functionMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 4 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 3 results from 1 study: 3 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	7
Tendon and ligament healingMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 7 results from 1 study: 1 increase, 1 decrease, 4 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	7
Heart functionCardiovascular	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 1 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	6
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	No results	Animal: 1 result from 1 study: 1 increase. Strongest design: Other design	Lab: 5 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	6

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Skin and hairSkin and wound	Human: 7 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 2 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	Lab: 7 results from 4 studies: 3 increase, 1 decrease, 2 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	14
Wound healingSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 23 results from 6 studies: 16 increase, 1 decrease, 5 no significant change, 1 mixed. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 34 results from 12 studies: 24 increase, 4 decrease, 4 no significant change, 1 mixed, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	57
Inflammation markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 27 results from 10 studies: 2 increase, 25 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 9 results from 6 studies: 2 increase, 7 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	36
Receptor activity and mechanismSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 16 results from 6 studies: 10 increase, 5 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 18 results from 8 studies: 8 increase, 6 decrease, 2 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	Computer model: 1 result from 1 study: 1 not reported. Strongest design: In silico	35
Oxidative stressRespiratory	No results	Animal: 9 results from 3 studies: 5 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 4 results from 1 study: 3 increase, 1 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	13
Lung injury and fibrosisRespiratory	No results	Animal: 9 results from 3 studies: 9 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	9
Aging markersSkin and wound	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 4 increase, 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 2 results from 1 study: 2 decrease. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	8
Gastrointestinal protectionGastrointestinal	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 2 results from 1 study: 2 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	8
Mitochondrial functionMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 4 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 3 results from 1 study: 3 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	7
Tendon and ligament healingMusculoskeletal	No results	Animal: 7 results from 1 study: 1 increase, 1 decrease, 4 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	7
Heart functionCardiovascular	No results	Animal: 6 results from 1 study: 2 increase, 1 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	6
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	No results	Animal: 1 result from 1 study: 1 increase. Strongest design: Other design	Lab: 5 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	6

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	All
Endogenous peptide levelsRespiratory	3	–	–	–	3
Inflammation markersImmune and inflammation	2	–	–	–	2
Aging markersRespiratory	1	–	–	–	1
Muscle injury and repairMusculoskeletal	1	–	–	–	1
All outcome groups	7	–	–	–	7

GHK-Cu studies and research data

GHK-Cu identity

Targets

Sequence and structure

Sequence

Alignment to GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine; prezatide)

Properties

Net charge by pH

Composition

3D structure

2D structure

GHK-Cu results by year and outcome

What the studies measured

GHK-Cu studies on skin, hair and wounds

GHK-Cu studies on immune system and inflammation

GHK-Cu studies on cells, genes and aging

GHK-Cu studies on receptors and cell signals

GHK-Cu studies on muscles and tendons

GHK-Cu studies on lungs and breathing

GHK-Cu studies on stomach and gut

GHK-Cu studies on heart and blood vessels

GHK-Cu studies on daily life and fitness

GHK-Cu studies on blood levels and clearance

GHK-Cu studies on side effects

GHK-Cu studies on brain and nerves

GHK-Cu studies on memory and thinking

GHK-Cu studies on weight and appetite

GHK-Cu studies on bones and joints

GHK-Cu studies on infections

GHK-Cu trials

Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing

Papers

Studies with results

Redox chemistry of copper-amyloid-beta: the generation of hydroxyl radical in the presence of ascorbate is linked to redox-potentials and aggregation state.

Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.

In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds.

The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures.

Protective effects of GHK-Cu in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation pathways.

The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice.

Stimulation of sulfated glycosaminoglycan synthesis by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+.

Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts.

Microneedle-Mediated Delivery of Copper Peptide Through Skin.

Selected Biomarkers Revealed Potential Skin Toxicity Caused by Certain Copper Compounds.

In vitro observations on the influence of copper peptide aids for the LED photoirradiation of fibroblast collagen synthesis.

GHK-Cu-liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+ rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway.

Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application.

More studies

X-ray and solution structures of Cu(II) GHK and Cu(II) DAHK complexes: influence on their redox properties.

Enhanced healing of ulcers in patients with diabetes by topical treatment with glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine copper.

Structure of the Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine--copper(II) complex in solution.

Human skin penetration of a copper tripeptide in vitro as a function of skin layer.

Inhibition of the growth of cultured cells and an implanted fibrosarcoma by aroylhydrazone analogs of the Gly-His-Lys-Cu(II) complex.

Intermediate Cu(II)-Thiolate Species in the Reduction of Cu(II)GHK by Glutathione: A Handy Chelate for Biological Cu(II) Reduction.

Ternary Cu(II) Complex with GHK Peptide and Cis-Urocanic Acid as a Potential Physiologically Functional Copper Chelate.

The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.

Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data.

The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging: implications for cognitive health.

The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide.

Newer studies

GHK-Cu studies: 69 papers with results

Regulatory and safety

Animal evidence· 1

Lab evidence· 4

Doses studied · 12

Data and API

Peptide

Latest changes

For developers

Compare

Related peptides

GHK-Cu results by year and outcome

GHK-Cu studies on skin, hair and wounds

GHK-Cu studies on immune system and inflammation

GHK-Cu studies on cells, genes and aging

GHK-Cu studies on receptors and cell signals

GHK-Cu studies on muscles and tendons

GHK-Cu studies on lungs and breathing

GHK-Cu studies on stomach and gut

GHK-Cu studies on heart and blood vessels

Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu²⁺ rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway.

Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu²⁺ rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway.