Compound Guide
GHK-Cu: The Copper Peptide in Focus
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GHK-Cu is one of the most researched tripeptide-copper complexes. This guide covers its biochemistry, reconstitution, and what the current literature says.
Overview
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide present in human plasma. Its concentration declines significantly with age, making it a subject of considerable longevity and regenerative research interest.
Key Research Areas
Skin and Connective Tissue
GHK-Cu's stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures was demonstrated by Maquart FX, Pickart L, et al. (FEBS Lett. 1988;238(1):34–38, PMID: 3169264), who showed collagen stimulation at picomolar-to-nanomolar concentrations. Maquart FX et al. (J Clin Invest. 1993;92(5):2368–2376, PMID: 8227353) confirmed in vivo connective-tissue accumulation in rat wound models, with increased collagen type I and III expression. Siméon A, Wegrowski Y, et al. (J Invest Dermatol. 2000;115(6):962–968, PMID: 11121126) documented GHK-Cu modulation of glycosaminoglycans and small proteoglycans in wound tissue.
Antioxidant Activity
Pickart L, Margolina A (Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(8):2197, PMID: 29986520) review GHK-Cu's antioxidant actions, including modulation of superoxide dismutase expression and reduction of oxidative stress markers in cell culture models.
Gene Expression
Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A (BioMed Res Int. 2014;2014:151479, PMID: 25302294) reported that GHK-Cu influences the expression of over 4,000 human genes — resetting a substantial proportion toward a healthier baseline expression pattern. This gene-expression work is reviewed in depth by Pickart L, Margolina A (Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(8):2197, PMID: 29986520).
Reconstitution Notes
GHK-Cu produces a characteristic royal blue solution when correctly reconstituted — this color is entirely normal and confirms the copper complex is intact.
- Typical vial: 50–200 mg
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water
- Store at 2–8°C after reconstitution
For research use only. Not intended for human consumption.
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This article is for informational and research purposes only. All compounds referenced are sold strictly for in-vitro laboratory research use and are not intended for human consumption, veterinary use, or clinical/diagnostic procedures. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Avera Refined Wellness is a subsidiary of RDS 412 LLC.
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