A Peptide That Rewrites Gene Expression
Most peptides influence biological processes through receptor binding or enzyme modulation. GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) operates on a different level entirely — published research has identified over 4,000 genes whose expression it modulates at concentrations as low as 1-10 nanomolar. First isolated from human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, this copper-binding tripeptide (molecular weight ~403.9 Da) has become one of the most studied compounds in aging and tissue remodeling research.
Key Takeaway
GHK-Cu levels in human plasma drop from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60 — a 60% decline that correlates with reduced tissue repair capacity.
Mechanism: Gene Expression Modulation
GHK-Cu functions as a biological signal rather than a simple enzyme inhibitor or receptor agonist. Key pathways include:
- TGF-beta superfamily signaling — modulates transforming growth factor pathways involved in tissue repair and fibrosis
- Wnt pathway activation — promotes stem cell mobilization to injury sites
- Extracellular matrix remodeling — stimulates collagen and decorin synthesis while modulating metalloproteinase activity
- Anti-inflammatory effects — suppresses TNF-alpha and IL-6 while upregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines
- Antioxidant defense — upregulates SOD (superoxide dismutase) and catalase expression
Published Research Areas
- Wound healing acceleration — published data on enhanced wound closure rates in preclinical models
- Collagen synthesis — upregulation of Type I and III collagen production
- Stem cell attraction — evidence of increased stem cell migration to injury sites
- Anti-aging gene expression — genome-wide studies showing reversal of age-associated gene expression patterns
Handling Notes
GHK-Cu requires special handling due to its unique properties:
- Hygroscopic: Absorbs atmospheric moisture readily. Store lyophilized with desiccant in sealed container at -20°C.
- Blue-green color: Reconstituted GHK-Cu has a characteristic blue-green tint — this is normal and indicates intact copper binding. If the solution is colorless, the copper may have dissociated.
- Reconstitution: Use sterile water or bacteriostatic water. Calculate volumes with our Reconstitution Calculator.
Available Products
GHK-Cu 50mg · 100mg. ≥98% HPLC verified with COA.
For research purposes only.