Back to Peptides
Skin & JointLow Risk

GHK-Cu

Also known as: Copper Peptide, Tripeptide-1 Copper, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper

Half-life:
15–30 minutes

Administration Routes

topicalsubcutaneous
PeptideBase provides educational research tools and provider discovery. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, prescribing guidance, or dosing instructions. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu promotes the synthesis of collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and decorin, contributing to tissue remodelling and wound contraction. It modulates the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) — stimulating wound-healing MMPs while suppressing those that degrade healthy tissue. Genomic analysis has identified GHK-Cu as a modulator of over 4,000 genes, including those governing antioxidant defences and anti-inflammatory pathways.

GHK-Cu (copper peptide tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring plasma copper complex with broad tissue-remodelling activity. It is one of the most extensively researched peptides for skin health, wound healing, and collagen synthesis. Research has explored its effects across dermatological, cosmetic, and systemic contexts, including roles in joint tissue maintenance and anti-inflammatory signalling.

Primary Research Areas

  • skin_joint
  • recovery

Risk Profile

Low Risk

Generally considered lower risk in research contexts. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Providers Offering GHK-Cu