GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper tripeptide · CS-0015088
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied in laboratory research for skin and tissue remodeling. It is a research compound and is not approved by the FDA for human use.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide. GHK-Cu exerts its effects by regulating multiple biochemical pathways involved in tissue repair, including stimulating the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, and supporting dermal fibroblast function. It also possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell protective activities, such as DNA repair, suppression of aging-related molecules like NFκB, and activation of cell cleansing mechanisms via the proteasome system. Additionally, GHK-Cu promotes tissue remodeling, wound healing, and regeneration, partly through its high affinity for copper and formation of the chelate GHK-Cu.
It is best referenced by its chemistry (PubChem CID 139035031, molecular formula C14H21CuN6O4-). GHK-Cu is sold and discussed for laboratory and research use only.
Key Benefits & Mechanisms
Mechanism of action
GHK-Cu exerts its effects by regulating multiple biochemical pathways involved in tissue repair, including stimulating the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, and supporting dermal fibroblast function. It also possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell protective activities, such as DNA repair, suppression of aging-related molecules like NFκB, and activation of cell cleansing mechanisms via the proteasome system. Additionally, GHK-Cu promotes tissue remodeling, wound healing, and regeneration, partly through its high affinity for copper and formation of the chelate GHK-Cu.
Research Summary
GHK-Cu has been examined in peer-reviewed research; representative studies are listed below. The publicly available evidence is primarily preclinical, and GHK-Cu is not approved by the FDA for human use.
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. (2018) PubMed · PMID 29986520
- The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide. (2020) PubMed · PMID 35083444
- Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospective. (2025) PubMed · PMID 39963574
Frequently asked questions about GHK-Cu
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?
No. GHK-Cu is not approved by the FDA for human use. It is sold for laboratory and research purposes only, and its public evidence base is primarily preclinical.
What is GHK-Cu studied for?
In research, GHK-Cu is studied for skin and tissue remodeling. GHK-Cu exerts its effects by regulating multiple biochemical pathways involved in tissue repair, including stimulating the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, and supporting dermal fibroblast function. It also possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell protective activities, such as DNA repair, suppression of aging-related molecules like NFκB, and activation of cell cleansing mechanisms via the proteasome system. Additionally, GHK-Cu promotes tissue remodeling, wound healing, and regeneration, partly through its high affinity for copper and formation of the chelate GHK-Cu.
How is GHK-Cu stored?
Like most peptides, lyophilized GHK-Cu is best kept cold, dark, and dry; reconstituted material is refrigerated and used within a limited window. See the storage and reconstitution guide for details.
Legal & research status: Research use only — not approved by the FDA for human use. Sold and discussed for laboratory and research use only, not for human consumption.