Dermatology

GHK-Cu

Naturally occurring tripeptide in human plasma with high affinity for copper. Widely used in dermatological and cosmetic research.

Preclinical

Overview

GHK was identified in human plasma in the 1970s, and its levels decline with age. Complexed with copper (GHK-Cu), it is studied in wound-healing and extracellular matrix remodelling models. Gene-expression analyses suggest broad effects that still need clinical confirmation.

Mechanism of action

Copper delivery to cells and possible stimulation of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblasts (in vitro and animal data).

Research areas

  • Skin and extracellular matrix
  • Wound healing
  • Cosmetic formulations

Selected references

  1. 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. PubMed ↗

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