GHK-Cu Copper Peptide: Research Guide
GHK-Cu is a three-amino-acid peptide bound to a copper ion. Discovered in human plasma, it is one of the most-researched peptides in dermal and cosmetic science. This guide covers its structure, the key studies on it, and how to read the research.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK is the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. It binds copper(II) ions strongly, and the copper complex is called GHK-Cu (or “copper tripeptide-1” in cosmetic ingredient lists). GHK was first isolated from human plasma. The same three-amino-acid sequence also appears inside the α2(I) chain of type I collagen [1].
| Also known as | Copper tripeptide-1, copper peptide, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (GHK) |
| GHK (peptide only) | C14H24N6O4, 340.38 g/mol (PubChem CID 73587) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder; typically blue because of the copper |
What has the research looked at?
Collagen synthesis
A frequently cited 1988 study in FEBS Letters found that GHK-Cu stimulated collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures. The effect began at extremely low concentrations (10-12 to 10-11 M), peaked at about 10-9 M, and did not depend on changes in cell number. The authors noted that because GHK sits inside the collagen chain, proteases at a wound site could release it, where it might act locally in healing [1].
Gene-expression studies
More recent research has used gene-expression databases to look at GHK’s effects at scale. A 2018 review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences summarizes reported activities that include collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, support of dermal fibroblast function, and modulation of many gene pathways [2]. A related 2017 paper looked at gene sets relevant to the nervous system [3].
Note: much of the GHK literature comes from a small number of research groups, and some authors have commercial ties to skin-care products. Reviewers generally call for larger, independent studies.
Topical and delivery research
GHK is hydrophilic, so getting it through the skin barrier is a research topic of its own. Recent reviews cover topical formulations and microneedle delivery [4, 5].
Laboratory handling
- Copper complexes are sensitive to pH and chelators. Avoid buffers with EDTA or other strong chelating agents unless removing copper is the point of the experiment.
- Store lyophilized material cold, dry and protected from light, following the label and COA.
- The Certificate of Analysis confirms peptide identity and purity for each lot.
FAQ
Is GHK-Cu the same as the “copper peptide” in skin-care products?
Cosmetic “copper tripeptide-1” is GHK-Cu, but cosmetic formulations differ widely in concentration and purity. Ares Labs supplies research-grade lyophilized GHK-Cu with a batch COA.
Is it for human use?
No. Ares Labs research products are for laboratory use only.
View GHK-Cu research vials and the current COA →
References
- Maquart FX, Pickart L, Laurent M, et al. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. FEBS Lett. 1988;238(2):343-346. PMID 3169264
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987. PMID 29986520
- Pickart L, et al. The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression Relevant to Nervous System Function and Cognitive Decline. Brain Sci. 2017. PMID 28212278
- Mortazavi SM, et al. Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospective. BioImpacts. 2025. PMID 39963574
- Najafi N, et al. A Systematic Review of the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications of GHK-Cu in Topical Microneedle Delivery. 2026. PMID 42787770
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or animal consumption. This article summarizes published research for reference. It is not medical advice and makes no claim that any product treats, cures or prevents any condition.