Repair & recovery
GHK-Cu
A three-amino-acid peptide bound to copper, with roles in the biology of collagen and connective tissue.
Three amino acids. A copper connection.
GHK stands for glycine–histidine–lysine. Adding a copper ion forms GHK-Cu. The complex influences how fibroblasts—the cells that maintain connective tissue—produce collagen.
How it works.
- Copper binding
- GHK coordinates a copper ion to form a peptide–copper complex.
- Collagen synthesis
- In fibroblast cultures, GHK-Cu increased production of collagen.
- Extracellular matrix
- Collagen contributes to the structural network surrounding cells.
Useful terms
- Tripeptide
- A peptide made from three amino acids.
- Extracellular matrix
- The network of proteins and other material surrounding cells.
- Collagen
- A major structural protein in connective tissue.
Results.
Risks, concerns & drawbacks.
- Formulation matters
- Skin serums and injectable formulations produce different exposures. Results from a topical serum describe that serum and route.
- Follow-up
- The 18-person eyebrow study reported no serious adverse effects or allergic reactions over twelve weeks. It does not map uncommon reactions or the effects of longer-term injectable use.