What is the difference between GHK and GHK-Cu?

GHK is the basic copper-free tripeptide, while GHK-Cu is the same peptide already complexed with a copper(II) ion. Basic GHK binds copper present in tissue, whereas GHK-Cu delivers the copper directly.

Is GHK naturally found in the body?

Yes. GHK is a fragment of collagen that circulates in human plasma and declines with age, which is part of why it is studied for skin and tissue repair.

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Collagen & Skin

Healing & Recovery

Research Chemical

GHK (Basic) (Tripeptide-1)

Also known as: GHK, GHK Basic, Tripeptide-1

GHK is a naturally occurring human tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) studied for skin remodeling, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. The copper-free 'basic' form is the parent peptide that readily binds copper in tissue.

Mechanism of Action

GHK has a high affinity for copper(II) ions and acts as a physiological carrier that delivers copper to cells, modulating the activity of copper-dependent enzymes. It regulates the expression of a large set of genes governing extracellular matrix turnover, stimulating fibroblast synthesis of collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans while modulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs). It also exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and promotes angiogenesis and nerve outgrowth in wound models.

Half-life: Short; rapidly cleared from plasma (minutes) and metabolized by peptidases
Administration Routes: topical, subcutaneous
Research Status: Research Chemical