GHK-Cu Peptide Description

• CAS No.: 89030-95-5
• Molecular Formula: C14H21CuN6O4
• Molecular Weight: 400.91 g/mol
• Sequence: (Cu2+)H-Gly-His-Lys-OH (Note: Corrected from Glu to Gly)
• Appearance: Blue lyophilized powder
• Reconstitution: Required
• Storage: After reconstitution, store at 2°C — 8°C
• Synonyms: Copper peptideA peptide is a molecule consisting of a chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Peptides are shorter chains than proteins and usually contain from 2 to 50 amino acids. When the number of amino acids in a chain exceeds 50, such molecules are called proteins. Peptides can perform various functions in the body, including: Hormones, Neuropeptides, Antibiotics, Antioxidants, GHK Copper, Prezatide copper acetate, tripeptide, copper tripeptide, GHK-Cu, GHK, copper peptide.

GHK-Cu is one of the most well-known and extensively researched peptides in cosmetology and regenerative medicine. It is often called the “youth peptide” or “smart peptide” due to its broad and multifaceted positive effects on the body.

1. What is GHK-Cu?

• Structure: It is a small peptide consisting of three amino acidsAmino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins and play a key role in biological processes. There are a total of 22 standard amino acids used for protein synthesis in living organisms.: Glycine-Histidine-Lysine, tightly bound to a copper (Cu) atom. The copper is an integral part of the molecule and is critical for its biological activity.
• Natural Origin: GHK-Cu was discovered as a low-molecular-weight complex present in high concentrations in the blood plasma of young people (20-25 years old). Its concentration significantly decreases with age (after 50-60, it becomes several times lower). This age-related dynamic led scientists to believe this compound plays a key role in maintaining tissue youth and health.

2. How GHK-Cu Works: A Multifaceted Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu does not have a single receptor target. Its power lies in its ability to coordinate and “reprogram” numerous cellular processes simultaneously, shifting them towards a younger and healthier state.

Main Mechanisms of Action:

1. Regulation of Gene Expression (Primary Mechanism): This is the most remarkable ability of GHK-Cu. It acts as a signaling molecule that influences DNA activity:
   • It suppresses (downregulates) genes associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue degradation (e.g., collagenase genes that break down collagenCollagen is a fibrillar protein, one of the main building elements of the body. It constitutes a significant part of connective tissues such as skin, tendons, joints, bones, and cartilage. Collagen provides strength, elasticity, and structural integrity to these tissues, giving them the ability to resist stretching.).
   • It activates (upregulates) genes responsible for synthesis and regeneration. These include genes for collagen (types I, II, III, IV), elastin, decorin, fibronectin, as well as genes for antioxidant enzymesEnzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They ensure the occurrence of metabolic processes such as food digestion, energy release, cell formation, and many others. (superoxide dismutase).
   • Result: GHK-Cu essentially “instructs” cells (fibroblasts, keratinocytesKeratinocytes are the primary cells of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin), playing a crucial role in forming the skin's protective barrier. They constitute approximately 90% of all epidermal cells., etc.) to behave as they did in youth: actively produce structural proteinsProteins are high-molecular organic substances consisting of alpha-amino acids linked in a chain by a peptide bond. In living organisms, the amino acid composition of proteins is determined by the genetic code. During synthesis, 20 standard amino acids are used in most cases. Many combinations of them determine the great diversity of properties of protein molecules. Proteins play a key role in the immune response and can perform transport, storage, catalytic, structural, and receptor functions. Proteins are an important part of the nutrition of animals and humans. The main sources of proteins are meat, poultry, fish, milk, nuts, legumes, and grains. and protect themselves from damage.
2. Stimulation of Collagen and Elastin Synthesis:
   • GHK-Cu directly stimulates fibroblasts—the skin cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin.
   • It not only increases the quantity but also improves the quality of newly formed collagen, making its fibers more organized and strong.
   • Effect: Thickening of the skin, improved elasticity and firmness, reduction of wrinkles.
3. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Action:
   • Suppression of Inflammation: GHK-Cu reduces the production of key pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha) and IL-6 (Interleukin-6). This makes it effective not only for skin but also in systemic inflammatory conditions.
   • Antioxidant: It neutralizes free radicals and stimulates the body’s own antioxidant system. It protects cells from UV damage and other forms of oxidative stress.
4. Acceleration of Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration:
   • GHK-Cu attracts immune cells (macrophages) and precursor cells to the site of injury.
   • It stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), improving blood supply and nutrition to the recovering tissue.
   • It accelerates wound cleansing from damaged tissue and stimulates its replacement with healthy tissue.
   • Effect: Rapid healing of wounds, burns, ulcers, and postoperative recovery.
5. Improvement of Hair Condition and Growth:
   • When applied to the scalp, GHK-Cu:
     • Increases the size of hair follicles.
     • Prolongs the active hair growth phase (anagen).
     • Awakens “dormant” follicles.
     • Thickens the hair shaft itself, making hair thicker and denser.
6. Neuroprotective Effect:
   • In vitroIn vitro can be defined as in a test tube, outside a living organism. This term is used in scientific research when experiments are conducted in an artificially created environment that mimics the conditions of a living organism. studies and animal models show that GHK-Cu can protect neurons from toxic effects and improve cognitive function after injury. This is a promising area for research into its role in combating neurodegenerative diseases.

3. Application and Forms

• Cosmetics (Topical Application): The most popular and safest method. GHK-Cu is found in:
  • Facial serums
  • Anti-wrinkle creams and gels
  • Shampoos and hair growth products
  • After-sun products and skin recovery treatments
  • Concentrations in cosmetics typically range from 1-3%.
• Injections (Mesotherapy, Biorevitalization):
  • Injected locally into the skin (face, scalp) for deeper and more targeted action.
  • Used in aesthetic medicine clinics.
• Systemic Application (Subcutaneous Injections):
  • Less common, but used in anti-age therapy and for general health purposes.
  • Requires consultation with a doctor and an understanding of potential systemic effects.

4. Side Effects and Safety

GHK-Cu is considered a very safe compound with a low side effect profile.

• With topical application: Rarely, mild redness, itching, or temporary tingling at the application site, which usually resolves quickly.
• With injectable administration: Possible soreness, bruising at the injection site. As with any injectable, there is a risk of infection if sterility is not maintained.
• Important: Although copper is a natural trace element, its excess in the body can be toxic. However, with topical and local injectable application, systemic absorption and overdose risk are minimal. Systemic use requires monitoring and medical supervision.

Summary

GHK-Cu is a unique signaling peptide that acts as a “molecular switch,” putting cells into a mode of regeneration and youth. It doesn’t just mask age-related changes but actively works to eliminate them at the genetic and cellular level by stimulating collagen synthesis, fighting inflammation, and accelerating tissue repair. This makes it one of the most scientifically grounded and effective components in modern anti-age and aesthetic medicine.