What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide first isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973. Its concentration in human plasma declines significantly with age — from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60.
Gene Expression Research
A landmark 2012 study by Pickart et al. found that GHK-Cu influences the expression of 4,000+ human genes — roughly 6% of the human genome. The affected genes are involved in collagen synthesis, decorin production, antioxidant defense, and DNA repair pathways.
Investigated Applications
- Extracellular matrix remodeling — collagen I, III, and decorin synthesis
- Copper-dependent enzyme activation — superoxide dismutase (SOD)
- Gene expression modulation — suppression of fibrinogen and activation of TGF-β
- Dermatological research — multiple studies on skin fibroblast behavior in cell culture
Cited Sources
- According to Pickart, L. et al. (2012). "GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways." BioMed Research International, 2012, 206237. [PubMed]
- According to Pickart, L. & Margolina, A. (2018). "Regenerative and protective actions of GHK-Cu peptide." Int J Mol Sci, 19(7), 1987. [PubMed]