GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring tripeptide with a strong affinity for copper ions, first isolated from human plasma in 1973. Studied mainly in skin and wound-healing research.
Level of evidence
Early human data — small or uncontrolled studiesWhat it is
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is a tripeptide identified in human plasma by Loren Pickart in 1973. It binds copper(II) ions; the copper complex is known as GHK-Cu.
State of the research
Published work includes cell studies on skin cells, animal wound models and small studies of cosmetic formulations applied to the skin. Large controlled clinical trials are lacking.
Sources
Last reviewed: October 2026
Summaries of published scientific literature, for information and laboratory research only. They do not describe uses of our products, are not medical advice and do not imply that any compound is safe or effective in humans. Our products are not for human or animal consumption.