Summary

GHK-Cu, or copper tripeptide-1, is a naturally occurring peptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine that tightly binds copper ions. Its primary activities include stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, accelerating tissue repair, reducing inflammation, promoting angiogenesis, and providing antioxidant protection. GHK-Cu is recognised for its skin rejuvenation, wound healing, hair growth, and anti-aging benefits across research, cosmetic, and medical applications. For research use only—not for human consumption.

Clinical Data

Clinical and animal studies show GHK-Cu improves wound healing, collagen production, and tissue regeneration. For example, topical GHK-Cu applied for 12 weeks improved collagen production in 70% of treated women versus 50% with vitamin C. Preclinical work supports rapid healing in skin, lung, liver, and bone tissues by modulating inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α), and enhancing antioxidant pathways. Recent research in ulcerative colitis mouse models shows GHK-Cu significantly reduces disease activity scores, inflammation, and mucosal damage, likely via regulating SIRT1/STAT3 pathways and boosting tight junction protein repair. Safety studies report high tolerability at practical topical and injectable doses, with decades of cosmetic use.