GHK-Cu

Also known as: Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II), GHK Copper Complex, Loren Pickart Peptide, Copper Tripeptide-1

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. First identified by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, GHK-Cu was discovered during research into why liver tissue from young donors could stimulate old liver tissue to produce proteins characteristic of youth — the active factor was identified as this small copper-complexed peptide. Plasma levels of GHK decline significantly with age: from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This age-related decline correlates with the progressive loss of regenerative capacity in tissues. The copper complex is critical for biological activity — the Cu²⁺ ion is essential for the peptide's interaction with target receptors and metalloenzymes. GHK-Cu is remarkable for its broad spectrum of regenerative activities across multiple organ systems. Gene expression studies show it modulates over 4,000 human genes — approximately 6% of the genome — resetting gene expression patterns toward a healthier, more youthful state. It has FDA-cleared applications in cosmetic products and wound dressings and remains a subject of intensive research in anti-aging and regenerative medicine.