Peptide lexicon
GHK-Cu
Copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a naturally occurring plasma peptide studied in models of collagen synthesis and tissue repair.
| Substance class | Peptide |
|---|---|
| Sequence | GHK · Cu²⁺ |
| CAS number | 89030-95-5 |
| Molecular formula | C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄+ |
| Molar mass | 402.92 g/mol |
| Synonyms | Kupferpeptid, Prezatide copper, Copper tripeptide-1 |
| PubChem | CID 71587328 |
Structure
GHK is the tripeptide Gly-His-Lys, which binds divalent copper with high affinity. It occurs in human plasma, saliva and urine, and plasma levels decline with age. Lab reports therefore often state three values: total GHK-Cu, the GHK fraction and the copper content.
Research focus
In cell and animal models GHK-Cu is studied in connection with collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, angiogenesis, antioxidant effects and the regulation of numerous genes. Much of the work comes from skin research.
Status
GHK-Cu is used as an ingredient in cosmetic formulations (INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1). There are no medicinal product authorisations.
Literature
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene DataInt J Mol Sci, 2018 · PMID 29986520 · DOI 10.3390/ijms19071987
- Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future DirectionsJ Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev, 2026 · PMID 41490200 · DOI 10.5435/JAAOSGlobal-D-25-00236
- Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospectiveBioimpacts, 2025 · PMID 39963574 · DOI 10.34172/bi.30071
- Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine PhysiciansAm J Sports Med, 2026 · PMID 41476424 · DOI 10.1177/03635465251357593
- GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin RegenerationBiomed Res Int, 2015 · PMID 26236730 · DOI 10.1155/2015/648108
