GHK-Cu (50mg)

What is GHK-Cu 50 mg?

GHK-Cu is a synthetic copper peptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine bound to a copper ion (Cu²⁺). This tripeptide-copper complex occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, where it plays a role in processes related to tissue remodeling and cellular signaling.

Evolve Peptides supplies GHK-Cu in a stable, lyophilized powder form to ensure long-term integrity under proper storage conditions. The compound demonstrates excellent solubility in sterile water or appropriate research-grade solvents, making it suitable for a wide range of preclinical applications involving cellular and biochemical assays.

This peptide is for research use only. GHK-Cu is not intended for human consumption or therapeutic use.

GHK-Cu Mechanism of Action (Based on Research)

GHK-Cu has been shown to influence a wide range of biological pathways that support tissue regeneration, wound healing, and cellular repair.

Research suggests that GHK-Cu plays a regulatory role in gene expression, inflammation modulation, and the maintenance of extracellular matrix integrity. This section explores the mechanisms through which GHK-Cu exerts its effects, drawing on current scientific evidence to provide a detailed understanding of its cellular activity.

Tissue Regeneration & Wound Healing

GHK-Cu has been widely investigated in nonclinical models for its role in promoting tissue regeneration and wound healing. One of its key biological functions is the stimulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, including collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans.

These structural proteins and molecules are essential for maintaining skin and connective tissue integrity, and their upregulation is a key aspect of tissue repair.

In in vitro studies, GHK-Cu has been shown to activate dermal fibroblasts, encouraging increased production of these matrix components, which contributes to improved tissue strength and elasticity during healing processes [1].

In addition to its effects on the ECM, GHK-Cu also plays a role in promoting angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels. It has been shown to stimulate the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) at concentrations as low as 1 nanomolar, both of which are critical regulators of blood vessel formation and repair [2].

Enhanced vascularization improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to damaged tissues, which accelerates healing and supports regeneration at the cellular level.

In animal models involving rabbits, mice, rats, and pigs, GHK-Cu demonstrated a consistent ability to accelerate wound closure, reduce inflammation, and increase antioxidant enzyme activity at the site of injury.

For example, in full-thickness wound models, GHK-Cu not only promoted faster re-epithelialization but also led to more organized collagen deposition compared to controls.

Cellular Repair & ECM Remodeling

In addition to its regenerative effects, GHK-Cu plays a crucial role in the regulation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), a fundamental component of tissue architecture and cellular signaling.

Research suggests that GHK-Cu helps maintain the structural and biochemical integrity of the ECM by modulating the activity of both matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their natural inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs).

This balanced regulation is essential for the controlled degradation and renewal of the ECM, processes necessary for tissue repair and remodeling following injury or stress.

At the cellular level, GHK-Cu has been shown to promote the proliferation, attachment, and viability of fibroblasts, particularly under conditions of cellular damage. In models where dermal fibroblasts were exposed to UV radiation or chemical stress, treatment with GHK-Cu restored normal cell morphology, enhanced proliferation rates, and improved cellular adhesion.

This suggests a protective and restorative effect on connective tissue cells. These effects are thought to be mediated, at least in part, by the peptide’s ability to restore mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress [2].

GHK-Cu also appears to support the repair of bone and connective tissues. In osteoblastic culture systems, the peptide has been associated with increased cell adhesion, spreading, and mineral deposition. These responses are indicative of a supportive role in bone regeneration, possibly through the upregulation of collagen type I and the stimulation of key osteogenic markers [1].

Furthermore, in studies of radiation-induced tissue damage, GHK-Cu has demonstrated the ability to partially reverse cellular senescence and restore functionality to damaged cells. This includes enhanced DNA repair signaling and normalization of gene expression related to cellular stress responses.

Taken together, the evidence suggests that GHK-Cu supports cellular recovery and matrix integrity through a coordinated set of actions that influence ECM remodeling, fibroblast activity, and tissue-specific repair pathways.

Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Effects

GHK-Cu has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in preclinical studies. One of its primary mechanisms involves reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF‑α and IL‑6, through inhibition of key signaling pathways such as NF-κB and p38 MAPK. 

This downregulation leads to decreased immune cell infiltration and a reduction in inflammation at the site of tissue injury [1].

In parallel, GHK-Cu exhibits robust antioxidant effects“Preclinical studies show that GHK-Cu scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulates antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalas, providing cellular protection against oxidative damage. In comparative studies, its antioxidant capacity was found to be stronger than that of glutathione under certain conditions [1].

These properties are particularly evident in models of acute lung injury and tissue fibrosis, where GHK-Cu reduced oxidative stress, improved histological outcomes, and preserved tissue function.

Gene Regulation & Anti-Aging Potential

GHK-Cu has been identified as a broad-acting gene expression modulator in several nonclinical studies. Gene profiling analyses reveal that GHK-Cu can upregulate or suppress thousands of human genes, including many involved in cell cycle control, DNA repair, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory pathways.

Notably, the peptide appears to reverse age-related gene expression patterns, restoring youthful profiles in cultured fibroblasts and keratinocytes.

In aging and stress-damaged cells, GHK-Cu has also been associated with enhanced stem cell function and differentiation. It appears to support epidermal and mesenchymal stem cell activity, likely by activating pathways tied to cell renewal and tissue maintenance [3].

Additionally, GHK-Cu may influence epigenetic processes, including the regulation of genes involved in caspase activity, TGF-β signaling, and oxidative damage control. These gene-level effects may underlie many of its observed actions in tissue regeneration and repair.

While these findings are promising, it’s important to emphasize that they are based on nonclinical and in vitro studies. Further investigation is required to clarify the peptide’s potential roles in age-related biological pathways.

Emerging Mechanisms

Beyond its established regenerative and anti-inflammatory roles, GHK-Cu continues to show promise in additional biological pathways, according to recent nonclinical studies. These emerging findings suggest that the peptide may influence a broader range of tissue systems, with relevance for experimental models of mucosal repair, neuroinflammation, and age-related degeneration.

• Gut Barrier Support: Enhances epithelial integrity by restoring tight-junction proteins (ZO‑1, occludin) and downregulating inflammatory STAT3 signaling in colitis models .
• Neuroprotection: Mitigates oxidative and inflammatory damage in neural tissues, with observed benefits on mitochondrial function and cellular resilience.
• Epigenetic Modulation: May influence gene expression patterns tied to aging, tissue remodeling, and cell survival.

Research Applications (GHK-Cu Benefits)

GHK-Cu has been widely investigated in nonclinical research for its multifaceted biological effects.

While not approved for clinical or therapeutic use, this synthetic copper peptide has demonstrated activity across several tissue systems in in vitro experiments and animal models, making it a valuable compound in experimental pharmacology, regenerative biology, and inflammation research.

Skin and Wound Healing Models

In skin and wound healing studies, GHK-Cu has shown the ability to stimulate collagen synthesis, promote angiogenesis, and accelerate re-epithelialization in full-thickness wound models.

These effects were observed in both rodents and porcine skin, with enhanced granulation tissue formation and improved histological architecture reported across multiple studies.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity

GHK-Cu’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have also been demonstrated in models of tissue injury and systemic inflammation. GHK-Cu downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL‑6, inhibits NF-κB activation, and enhances the expression of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase [1].

Tissue Remodeling and ECM Support

In terms of connective tissue research, GHK-Cu regulates the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors, supporting extracellular matrix remodeling and fibroblast activity. This suggests relevance in models of scar formation, tissue fibrosis, and tendon repair [2].

Gut Inflammation Models

Recent studies have expanded the scope of GHK-Cu research into mucosal biology. In murine models of colitis, it helped restore intestinal barrier function by increasing tight-junction proteins such as ZO‑1 and occludin, while also suppressing inflammation via the STAT3/SIRT1 pathway [4].

Neuroprotection & Oxidative Stress

Emerging data suggest a potential neuroprotective role as well. GHK-Cu may support neuronal health by protecting mitochondrial function and regulating copper transport in neural tissues. These properties have been explored in models of oxidative brain injury and age-related cognitive decline [5].

Gene Expression Modulation

GHK-Cu has been identified as a potent gene expression modulator, capable of activating or silencing over 4,000 human genes related to repair, anti-inflammation, and cellular homeostasis—many of which are associated with age-related decline [3] [6].

GHK-Cu Characteristics

• Molecular Formula:
  • Peptide: C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄
  • Copper complex: C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄
• CAS Number:
  • 49557-75-7 (primary)
  • Alternate: 89030-95-5
• Amino Acid Sequence: Gly‑His‑Lys chelated with Cu²⁺
• Synonyms:
  • Copper Tripeptide‑1
  • Prezatide copper
  • Glycyl‑L‑Histidyl‑L‑Lysine‑Cu
• Molar Mass:
  • Apo-peptide: ~340.4 g/mol
  • Full complex: ~401.9 g/mol
• Appearance & Solubility:
  • Lyophilized blue-purple powder
  • Highly soluble in water; stability at physiological pH; poor lipophilicity
• Storage Recommendations:
  • Store lyophilized powder in a cool, dry place 35.6–46.4 °F (2–8 °C) or –4 °F (–20 °C) for long-term storage
  • Protect from light and moisture

In this peptide, the Cu²⁺ ion forms a stable square‑planar complex with the histidine imidazole, glycine amino, and peptide backbone nitrogens, rendering redox stability and biological activity.

GHK-Cu vs BPC-157 vs TB-500 Comparison

GHK‑Cu Safety & Side Effects (Preclinical Studies)

GHK‑Cu has demonstrated a strong safety profile in nonclinical evaluations, with limited and generally mild side effects reported at research-level dosages:

• Low acute toxicity: In mice, the LD₅₀ for GHK‑Cu is around 8 mg per 25 g mouse, which extrapolates to roughly 23 g in a 70 kg human—a dose far beyond levels used in laboratory studies
• Minimal dermal irritation and cytotoxicity: Keratinocyte studies exposed to micromolar concentrations of GHK‑Cu showed no cytotoxicity or pro‑inflammatory responses, and it exhibited low irritation potential compared to simple copper salts [7]
• Favorable skin‑patch test results: In human patch trials at concentrations up to 2%, GHK‑Cu was not sensitizing nor irritating, supporting its suitability for topical preclinical research
• No observable toxicity in lung‑injury models: In mouse studies (1–10 μg/g dose range), GHK‑Cu pretreatment did not produce adverse effects, while reducing inflammation in acute lung injury [8]

Certificate of Analysis (COA)

At Evolve Peptides, every batch of GHK‑Cu 50 mg undergoes rigorous third-party testing to guarantee quality, purity, and consistency. Independent laboratories assess each vial to verify:

• Purity (≥99%), confirmed via HPLC or mass spectrometry
• Peptide identity through sequence confirmation
• Contaminant screening, including endotoxin and heavy metals

All COAs are batch-specific, meaning you receive a verified quality report tailored to the exact vial in your possession. A dedicated COA link is provided directly on each product page, allowing you to view or download the full report.

If you prefer, you can submit the COA for independent testing, and Evolve Peptides will replace your vial free-of-charge if used in verification.

Legal Disclaimer

This product is intended for laboratory research purposes only. It is not approved for human or veterinary use. It is not for therapeutic, diagnostic, or clinical applications. This product is not for resale or household use.

By purchasing this product, you agree to use it in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations governing laboratory research chemicals. Improper use may violate federal, state, or local laws.

Scientific References

1. Pickart, L., Vasquez‑Soltero, J. M., & Margolina, A. (2015). GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration. BioMed Research International, 2015, Article 648108. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2015/648108
2. Park, K. (2022). The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide. Biomolecules & Therapeutics, 30(2), 103–112. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8789089/
3. Pickart, L., Vasquez-Soltero, J. M., & Margolina, A. (2017). The effect of the human peptide GHK on gene expression relevant to nervous system function and cognitive decline. Brain Sciences, 7(2), 20. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/7/2/20
4. 4.Mao, S., Huang, J., Li, J., Sun, F., Zhang, Q., Cheng, Q., Zeng, W., Lei, D., Wang, S., & Yao, J. (2025). Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 16, Article 1551843. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1551843/full 
5. 5.Pickart, L., Margolina, A., & Mizejewski, G. J. (2012). The collagen‑building peptide GHK‑Cu may prevent oxidative stress in the skin. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2012, Article 324832. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2012/324832 
6. Pickart, L., Vasquez‑Soltero, J. M., & Margolina, A. (2014). GHK and DNA: resetting the human genome to health. BioMed Research International, 2014, Article 151479. https://europepmc.org/article/PMC/3359723
7. Pickart, L., Margolina, A., Thaler, M. M., & Rodriguez, D. (2016). Copper tripeptide GHK-Cu reverses gene expression changes in COPD patients. International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, 11, 1801–1813. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27892491/
8. Park, J.-R., Lee, H., Kim, S.-I., & Yang, S.-R. (2016). The tripeptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury by antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Oncotarget, 7(32), 51873–51886. https://www.oncotarget.com/article/11168/text/