GHK-CU

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) complexed with copper(II) ions. Found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, declining significantly with age (200 ng/mL at age 20 → 80 ng/mL by age 60). Genomic studies reveal it modulates approximately 4,000 human genes (~6% of the genome), systematically shifting gene expression patterns from 'aged' toward 'youthful' profiles.

Therapeutic Uses

• •Skin rejuvenation / anti-aging: Increases collagen I by 70% and collagen III by 120%. Improves skin firmness, elasticity, and clarity.
• •Wound healing: Accelerates healing of surgical wounds, diabetic ulcers, and chronic non-healing wounds.
• •Hair growth: Comparable efficacy to minoxidil 5% in stimulating hair growth. Increases follicle size and extends anagen phase.
• •Bone repair: Promotes osteoblast differentiation and bone mineralization.
• •Lung tissue repair (COPD): Preclinical evidence of lung fibroblast remodeling and tissue repair.

Empirical Evidence

Pickart L et al. (BioMed Res Int 2012) — Comprehensive review documenting gene modulation, collagen stimulation, and anti-aging effects. Pyo HK et al. — Hair growth stimulation comparable to minoxidil 5%. Multiple clinical trials in cosmetic dermatology confirming wrinkle reduction and skin thickness improvement.