GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It has been studied for its remarkable ability to influence the expression of over 4,000 human genes — broadly shifting expression patterns toward tissue remodeling, repair, and regeneration. GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied peptides in skin biology, wound healing, and tissue remodeling research.
Aliases: Copper peptide, Glycyl-histidyl-lysine
- Research score
- 8/10
- Reality tier
- established
Mechanism
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in plasma, saliva, and urine, declining with age. It functions as a biological signal that activates tissue remodeling at multiple levels: stimulates collagen I, III, and decorin synthesis; promotes dermatan sulfate proteoglycan production; increases VEGF for angiogenesis; attracts macrophages and mast cells; modulates metalloproteinase activity (both synthesis and inhibition); delivers copper to cells for superoxide dismutase and other cuproenzymes; and modulates expression of 4,000+ genes (32% up, 68% down), broadly resetting aged fibroblasts toward a healthier gene expression profile.
Evidence note
Emerging — Topical applications have human clinical data (cosmetic studies). Injectable use has limited human data but extensive cell culture and animal data. Gene expression data is robust and published in peer-reviewed journals. The naturally occurring status and decades of topical use support safety.
Community evidence
- Source window English Reddit Updated 12 Aug 2026 · 6-month window
- Coverage confidence Low Confidence in the available community sample
- Distribution Pending Not enough data for a distribution.
Selected reports
-
5 months agor/Biohackers · Post
r/Biohackers - GHK-Cu 6 week before and after Hello, I wanted to share my experience using GHK-Cu for under eye hollowness. Better quality pics of eye area https://ibb.co/1Y0BYBht I’ve always had issues with my under-eye area, but when I was overweight, they were not very
-
7 months agor/PeptidePathways · Post
Hey everyone, I’m observing a research subject using GHK-Cu and wanted to ask if others have noticed something similar. The subject is using a low dose (0.5 mg), diluted at 50mg/10ml, injected subcutaneously. What’s being noticed: - mild warmth/flush in the face (especially
-
6 months agor/PeptidePathways · Post
Noticing the following: \- Flushed/hot face \- Head pressure \- Elevated skin temp and slight recovery decline on whoop Feels like the feeling when you start to get sick - but with starting GHK-Cu 3 days ago it doesn’t seem like a coincidence. Guessing this is just my body
Based on 3 qualifying reports from 3 threads. 43 candidates excluded as duplicates, promotion, deleted content, or lacking concrete personal experience. Reddit self-reports are not medical evidence or proof of causation.
Reference data
- Molecular formula
- C14H24CuN6O4
- Sequence
Gly-His-Lys:Cu(II)
Studies
Copper peptide and skin remodeling
Stimulated collagen synthesis and improved skin elasticity in human studies.
Open source · PMID 18492148GHK-Cu and gene expression
Modulated expression of 4,000+ genes, resetting gene expression patterns toward a healthier state.
Open source · PMID 24752418GHK-Cu in wound healing
Enhanced wound healing rate and quality of tissue repair in multiple animal and human models.
Open source · PMID 25603361
FAQ
Can GHK-Cu be used topically?
Yes. GHK-Cu is widely used in topical skincare products. The injectable form provides systemic distribution. MEIMX currently offers the lyophilized vial; topical formulations are planned.
What does the Cu stand for?
Cu is the chemical symbol for copper. GHK-Cu is a tripeptide with a bound copper ion, which is essential for its biological activity.
Why does it decline with age?
Plasma GHK-Cu levels drop approximately 60% between ages 20 and 60, which correlates with declining tissue repair capacity and skin health.
For research and educational use only. This content is not medical advice.