Compound Profiles
GHK-Cu Copper Peptide: The Fastest-Growing Research Compound of 2026
Healthy Aminos Research Team · · 6 min read
Molecular Profile
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-metal complex first identified in human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973. It consists of the amino acid sequence Gly-His-Lys coordinated with a copper(II) ion. Molecular weight: 403.93 Da (CAS: 49557-75-7).
Plasma levels of GHK-Cu have been documented to decline with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This age-related decline has made the compound a subject of interest in published research literature.
Published Research
### Collagen Synthesis
In a foundational 1988 study, [Maquart et al.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3169264/) demonstrated that GHK-Cu stimulated collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures at picomolar concentrations. The study observed increased production of collagen types I and III, along with decorin and other extracellular matrix components. This was among the first studies documenting the complex's effects on matrix remodeling at extremely low concentrations.
### Gene Expression Review
[Pickart & Margolina (2018)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29986520/) published a comprehensive review examining GHK-Cu's effects on gene expression. Using microarray data, the authors reported that GHK-Cu was associated with modulation of over 4,000 human genes in cell culture models — with upregulation of genes involved in tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix production.
### Ligament Repair Model
[Canapp et al. (2015)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25731775/) examined GHK-Cu in a rat ACL reconstruction model. The study reported observations on tissue remodeling markers and collagen organization at the graft site in treated versus control groups over a 12-week period.
Research Status
GHK-Cu research spans in vitro cell culture, gene expression studies, and animal models. Search interest has grown over 1,000% year-over-year, reflecting increasing research attention. The compound is not FDA-approved.
Research-grade [GHK-Cu](/peptides/skin/ghk-cu) is available in 50mg vials with ≥98% HPLC purity.
*All Healthy Aminos products are for research use only. Not for human or animal consumption. Not FDA approved.*
Research Use Only
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Products sold by Healthy Aminos are intended strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. Not for human or animal consumption. Not FDA approved. By purchasing from Healthy Aminos, the buyer acknowledges that these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All products are sold as reference standards and research chemicals only.