What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide that chelates copper ions. It is found in human plasma, saliva, and urine and is one of the most extensively studied copper-binding peptides in the scientific literature. Plasma concentrations are approximately 200 ng/ml at age 20 and decline to roughly 80 ng/ml by age 60.
Its surge in search interest (+1,016% YoY) is driven by converging trends: viral skincare content around copper peptide serums, growing interest in injectable anti-aging peptide research, and the broader longevity wave pulling researchers toward compounds with long publication histories and low toxicity profiles.
GHK-Cu sold by Evo Peptides is for research use only and is not intended for human consumption. Injectable GHK-Cu was removed from FDA Category 2 in April 2026 but is not yet on the Category 1 approved list.
Mechanisms of Action
GHK-Cu has a documented record of biological activity across several distinct pathways, making it one of the most mechanistically versatile peptides in the research literature:
Collagen Synthesis Stimulation
GHK-Cu stimulates the production of collagen types I, II, and III, as well as elastin, decorin, and other extracellular matrix proteins. This mechanism underlies much of the wound healing and skin research interest. Studies show upregulation of collagen-synthesizing enzymes (prolyl hydroxylase, lysyl oxidase) alongside downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade collagen.
Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Activity
The copper component of GHK-Cu participates in free radical scavenging through superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity. Research also documents downregulation of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6 in wound and injury models.
Gene Expression Modulation
One of the most striking findings in GHK-Cu research is its apparent ability to reset gene expression patterns in aged or damaged cells toward a younger baseline. Studies by researcher Loren Pickart and colleagues identified GHK-Cu's influence on over 4,000 human genes — including upregulation of systems governing DNA repair, ubiquitin-proteasome activity, and mitochondrial function.
Hair Follicle Stimulation
GHK-Cu has been studied in androgenetic alopecia and hair thinning models. Research suggests it enlarges hair follicle size and stimulates follicular proliferation, partly through effects on the Wnt signaling pathway and partly through improved scalp vascularity.
Wound Healing Acceleration
In skin wound models, GHK-Cu consistently accelerates closure speed, improves collagen quality in healed tissue, and reduces scar formation. The combination of angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-stimulating effects makes it one of the most studied peptides in dermatological research.
Research Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Full name | Copper(II) glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complex |
| Molecular weight | ~340.38 Da (peptide); ~403.91 Da (Cu complex) |
| Amino acids | 3 (Gly-His-Lys) |
| Appearance | Blue to blue-green powder (copper complex) |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Storage (lyophilized) | Refrigerated (2–8°C), protected from light and moisture |
| Purity (Evo Peptides) | ≥98% by HPLC |
Regulatory Status 2026
GHK-Cu (injectable) was removed from the FDA's Category 2 restricted list in April 2026. Unlike BPC-157 and TB-500, it is not on the July 23, 2026 PCAC agenda. The FDA has announced a separate PCAC review for GHK-Cu (injectable) before the end of February 2027. Topical GHK-Cu remains widely available in skincare formulations.