What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycine-histidine-lysine) first isolated from human plasma in 1973.
How does GHK-Cu work?
It delivers copper to cells and has been shown in lab studies to influence the activity of many genes tied to collagen production and tissue remodeling.
What are researchers studying?
- ●Skin repair and collagen in cosmetic research
- ●Wound healing in animal models
- ●Hair-follicle biology
Where does the evidence stand?
Widely used in topical cosmetic products. Not approved by the FDA as a drug.
Quick facts
- Research area
- Dermal
- Sequence
Gly-His-Lys:Cu- Also known as
- GHK Copper, Copper Peptide
- Third-party lab results
- 5 published COAs →
- Tested vendors tracking it
- 2 vendors →
Recent peer-reviewed research
The most relevant GHK-Cu studies from the last three years, via PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine).
- Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospectiveBioImpacts : BI · 2025 · PubMed ↗
- Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine PhysiciansThe American journal of sports medicine · 2026 Jan · PubMed ↗
- Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future DirectionsJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews · 2026 Jan 1 · PubMed ↗
- Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic PerformanceSports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) · 2026 Aug · PubMed ↗
- Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK-Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) · 2025 Jan 1 · PubMed ↗
Compare GHK-Cu
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This guide summarizes published research for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not describe how to use GHK-Cu. Citations link to PubMed and are listed for reference — we haven't reviewed or endorsed their findings. Products referenced on The Peptide Audit are sold by third parties for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.