Copper Tripeptide-1

Copper Tripeptide-1, also known as GHK-Cu, is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine with a strong affinity for copper(II) ions. It was first identified in human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in the 1970s, who observed that plasma from young individuals contained a factor that could stimulate old liver cells to synthesize proteins like those from younger cells. This factor was subsequently identified as the GHK-Cu complex.

GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively studied peptides in dermatology and wound healing research. The copper ion is essential to the peptide's biological activity, serving as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen synthesis, elastin production, and antioxidant defense. Research has demonstrated that GHK-Cu can stimulate collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in skin fibroblasts, promote angiogenesis, support nerve growth, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The peptide's concentration in plasma decreases significantly with age, from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to approximately 80 ng/mL by age 60. This decline has been hypothesized to contribute to the reduced regenerative capacity observed in aging tissues. Gene expression studies have revealed that GHK-Cu can influence the expression of numerous genes, upregulating those involved in tissue repair and stem cell function while downregulating those associated with inflammation and tissue destruction.

In clinical dermatology studies, topical application of GHK-Cu has shown improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, fine lines, and overall skin appearance. It has also been studied for hair growth stimulation, where it may enlarge hair follicles and stimulate hair growth similar to minoxidil in some comparative trials. Its wound healing properties have been documented in both animal and human studies, showing accelerated closure and improved tissue remodeling.