GHK-Cu and the Copper Chemistry
GHK is a tripeptide that binds copper with high affinity. That single property, copper coordination, is the thread running through most of its research literature.
03 / GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu
Available as VEA
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (complexed with Cu2+) |
|---|---|
| Formula | C14H22CuN6O4 |
| Class | Copper-binding tripeptide |
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring human plasma tripeptide, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with a copper ion. Native concentrations decline with age, which has made it a focus in cellular longevity and tissue remodelling research for over five decades.
Extracellular matrix remodelling
Studies observed GHK-Cu signalling both the breakdown of cross-linked collagen via matrix metalloproteinases and the synthesis of new collagen and elastin, a dual pathway examined in tissue models.
Gene expression
Broad-spectrum gene profiling has examined GHK-Cu in relation to shifts in expression across a large number of human genes toward a more regenerative profile.
Antioxidant and cytokine signalling
In oxidative stress models, research examined its relationship to pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha and IL-1beta, and to antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase.
GHK-Cu interaction
Matrix metalloproteinase signalling
Collagen breakdown
New collagen and elastin synthesis
Peer-reviewed references
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:648108. doi.org/10.1155/2015/648108
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018;19(7):1987. doi.org/10.3390/ijms19071987
Library
Research and Whitepapers
GHK-Cu: Copper Coordination and the Gene-Expression Data
GHK is a three-residue peptide, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, isolated from human plasma by Pickart in 1973. It binds copper(II) with high affinity to form GHK-Cu. The modern literature centres on gene-expression profiling and skin models.
For research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. Not for use in diagnostic, therapeutic, or clinical procedures.
