Collagen Synthesis Studies
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GHK-Cu is a copper peptide made of three amino acids. It occurs naturally and was first isolated from human plasma in 1973. It is one of the most studied peptides in skin research. Studies have measured how much collagen skin cells produce after exposure, and how the surrounding tissue structure changes. Levels in plasma fall with age, and that finding is what drove most of the research that followed.
Copper-binding tripeptide
The pathways GHK-Cu acts on — and what each one does. Signalling pathways studied in preclinical models · illustrative.
GHK-Cu chelates copper(II) ions and delivers them to cells, activating copper-dependent enzymes essential for collagen crosslinking, antioxidant defense, and tissue remodeling.
Stimulates fibroblasts to produce type I and III collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and decorin — rebuilding the extracellular matrix architecture in damaged tissue.
Gene expression studies show GHK-Cu modulates 4,000+ human genes, resetting expression patterns toward a healthier, more youthful state. This is among the broadest gene-modulatory effects of any known peptide.
The main areas GHK-Cu is being studied for — and the study-reported figures behind them.
Stimulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Studied extensively in wound healing and anti-aging skin models.
Pickart et al. 2015
Increases hair follicle size, stimulates follicle growth, and supports hair cycle transition in preclinical models.
Pickart et al. 2012
Modulates 4,000+ genes including DNA repair, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory pathways toward healthier expression patterns.
Pickart & Margolina 2014
Chelates free copper, reduces oxidative damage, and upregulates superoxide dismutase — the body's primary antioxidant enzyme.
Maquart et al. 2014
Representative figures from published research. Bars fill as you scroll.
Figures are representative of published research findings and shown for reference.
Every batch of GHK-Cu is sent to an accredited independent laboratory before it ships. Here is what we screen for.
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys-Cu(II) |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 403.9 Da |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄ |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Testing | Third-party HPLC, Mass Spec, Endotoxin |
| Storage | -20°C for up to 24 months |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
| COA | Included with every order |
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. It is found in human blood, saliva, and urine, with plasma levels declining from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.
Preclinical research has demonstrated that GHK-Cu may promote wound healing and skin repair by stimulating collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis; attract immune and endothelial cells to injury sites; have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; and modulate the expression of over 4,000 genes toward healthier patterns.
GHK-Cu is not FDA approved as a drug. It is available as a research peptide and is also found in some cosmetic formulations. Injectable forms are sold exclusively for in vitro research purposes.
GHK-Cu has been studied in cultured cell systems and in animal models, where published work examines copper binding, collagen-related gene expression and tissue-repair endpoints. Study concentrations and endpoints differ between publications — consult the primary literature for the parameters used in each experiment.
GHK-Cu consists of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine — complexed with a copper(II) ion. The molecular formula is C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄ with a molecular weight of approximately 403.9 Da. The histidine residue provides the primary copper-binding site.
Lyophilized GHK-Cu should be stored at -20°C for maximum stability (up to 24 months). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and protect from light.
Independent published research indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals — not Zorva Lab claims.
For Research Use Only.
Not for human or veterinary use. For in-vitro laboratory research only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA; this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Sold exclusively to qualified researchers and institutions.
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