GHK-Cu

About the Product

Genetic Labs GHK-Cu is a high-purity research-grade peptide supplied in a vial containing 50mg of lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder. GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It is a small peptide consisting of three amino acids—glycine, histidine, and lysine—that forms a stable complex with copper (Cu²⁺). GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied regenerative peptides, known for its ability to modulate gene expression, promote tissue repair, stimulate collagen synthesis, and exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Its wide-ranging biological activities make it a valuable research tool in dermatology, wound healing, aging research, and regenerative medicine.

Kit Contents:

• 1 Vial with 50mg GHK-Cu (Lyophilized Powder)

• 1 Vial with Bacteriostatic Water (Diluent)

For Laboratory Research Use Only. Not for human consumption.

Benefits (Research Scope)

• Copper-Binding Tripeptide: GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide that binds copper ions with high affinity, facilitating copper transport and utilization in tissues. This copper complex is essential for numerous enzymatic processes, including collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and antioxidant defense, making GHK-Cu a critical regulator of tissue homeostasis and repair.

• Versatile Research Tool: Suitable for a wide range of studies, including:

  • Dermatology & Skin Research: Studies on collagen synthesis, elastin production, skin elasticity, dermal repair, wound healing, and scar reduction.

  • Wound Healing & Tissue Repair: Research into accelerated wound closure, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and tissue regeneration.

  • Aging Research: Investigation into age-related decline in regenerative capacity, cellular senescence, photoaging, and interventions to promote tissue health and longevity.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Research: Studies on the modulation of inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and the promotion of anti-inflammatory microenvironments.

  • Hair Research: Investigation into hair follicle growth, dermal papilla cell proliferation, and hair regeneration.

  • Neuroprotection: Research into neuroprotection, cognitive function, and neural regeneration.

  • Musculoskeletal Research: Studies on bone formation, cartilage repair, and tendon healing.

  • Cancer Research: Investigation into the role of copper metabolism and GHK-Cu in cancer cell proliferation and metastasis.

  • Stem Cell Research: Studies on stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and regenerative potential.

• Practical Formulation: The lyophilized powder ensures stability and extended shelf life, while the included bacteriostatic water facilitates easy reconstitution for both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Research & Science

GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied peptides in tissue repair and regeneration, with a rich body of literature spanning over 40 years of scientific investigation.

• Mechanism of Action: GHK-Cu exerts its biological effects through multiple interrelated mechanisms:

  • Copper Transport & Bioavailability: GHK-Cu acts as a copper carrier, delivering copper ions to cells and tissues, where they serve as essential cofactors for numerous enzymes, including:

    • Lysyl oxidase: Cross-linking of collagen and elastin.

    • Superoxide dismutase (SOD): Antioxidant defense.

    • Cytochrome c oxidase: Mitochondrial electron transport.

    • Tyrosinase: Melanin synthesis.

  • Gene Expression Modulation: GHK-Cu has been shown to regulate the expression of over 4,000 genes, including:

    • Upregulation: Collagen (COL1A1, COL3A1), elastin, integrins, growth factors (VEGF, FGF), antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase).

    • Downregulation: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and pro-fibrotic factors (TGF-β).

  • Antioxidant Activity: GHK-Cu directly scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress through copper-mediated antioxidant enzyme activation.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promotes a regenerative, anti-inflammatory cellular environment.

  • Angiogenesis: Stimulates the formation of new blood vessels through upregulation of VEGF and other angiogenic factors.

• Tissue Repair & Regeneration: GHK-Cu is a central regulator of tissue repair:

  • Collagen Synthesis: Stimulates collagen production and deposition, essential for wound healing and tissue integrity.

  • Wound Healing: Accelerates wound closure, increases tensile strength, and reduces scar formation.

  • Extracellular Matrix Remodeling: Modulates the balance between collagen synthesis and degradation, promoting healthy tissue architecture.

  • Hair Growth: Stimulates hair follicle growth, prolongs the anagen (growth) phase, and increases hair follicle size.

• Aging Research: GHK-Cu has demonstrated significant anti-aging properties:

  • Reverses age-related gene expression patterns: Restores expression of genes associated with youthful cellular function.

  • Reduces cellular senescence: Protects cells from oxidative stress and DNA damage.

  • Improves skin elasticity and thickness: Through collagen and elastin stimulation.

  • Promotes tissue regeneration: Enhancing the regenerative capacity of aged tissues.

• Neuroprotective Research: GHK-Cu has shown potential in neuroprotection, including:

  • Protecting neurons from oxidative stress and apoptosis.

  • Promoting neurite outgrowth and neural regeneration.

  • Modulating neuroinflammation .

  • Improving cognitive function in aging and neurodegenerative models.

• Anti-Cancer Research: Due to its role in copper metabolism and gene expression regulation, GHK-Cu is being investigated in cancer research, exploring its effects on cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as its potential as a therapeutic adjunct.

• Focus on Genetic Variability: Research is exploring how genetic polymorphisms in collagen genes, antioxidant enzyme genes, and inflammatory pathway genes may influence individual responses to GHK-Cu, providing insights for personalized regenerative medicine approaches.