GHK-Cu
The Copper-Powered Peptide for Healing, Regeneration & Youthful Vitality
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu, short for Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine-Copper(II), is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma and extracellular fluid. It plays a critical role in wound healing, skin regeneration, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory regulation. The “Cu” refers to copper (II) ions, which GHK binds with high affinity to form its biologically active version.
In its injectable form, GHK-Cu exerts full-body regenerative effects, going far beyond cosmetic benefits. It is increasingly used in anti-aging medicine, injury recovery, skin health, and neuroprotection protocols.
Key Mechanism: GHK binds copper and delivers it into tissues, acting as a biological signal that triggers tissue repair, collagen synthesis, stem cell activation, and gene expression modulation.
How GHK-Cu Works in the Body
When injected, GHK-Cu:
- Delivers bioavailable copper to sites of injury or degeneration
- Activates tissue remodeling genes involved in repair and regeneration
- Reduces inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress
- Stimulates angiogenesis, collagen synthesis, and extracellular matrix renewal
- Supports stem cell activity, fibroblast function, and DNA repair
Reference: Pickart L, et al. “GHK-Cu may prevent oxidative stress-induced cell damage.” Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012;2012:324832.
Top Benefits of Injectable GHK-Cu
🔬 Advanced Tissue Repair
- Accelerates healing of skin, joints, muscles, and nerves
- Supports recovery from wounds, surgery, and orthopedic procedures
💆 Skin Regeneration and Rejuvenation
- Improves skin elasticity, tone, hydration, and texture
- Fades hyperpigmentation, scars, and fine lines
- Promotes youthful skin appearance by boosting collagen and elastin
🧠 Neuroprotective and Cognitive Support
- Demonstrated effects on neurogenesis and brain cell protection in models
- May support cognitive resilience and anti-inflammatory brain signaling
🦴 Bone, Joint, and Connective Tissue Health
- Enhances collagen deposition in ligaments and tendons
- May slow joint degradation in aging and osteoarthritis
🧬 Gene Modulation and Anti-Aging
- Alters expression of hundreds of human genes tied to regeneration, detox, and inflammation control
- Promotes youth-associated gene patterns and inhibits oncogenic and senescent genes
GHK-Cu vs. GHK Basic: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | GHK-Cu | GHK Basic |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Content | Pre-bound to Copper(II) ions | No copper bound; binds in vivo |
| Primary Use | Skin, wound healing, tissue regeneration, systemic repair | Gene modulation, copper-sensitive environments, systemic repair |
| Potency | Higher visible/localized regenerative effect | More subtle, systemic cellular signaling |
| Copper Risk | May contribute to systemic copper load in large doses | Safer for those with copper overload risk |
| Injection Use | Stronger for skin, joint, and nerve regeneration | Preferred in copper-sensitive stacks or longer cycles |
In short, GHK-Cu is best when intense regeneration and visible skin/tissue repair are the goal, while GHK Basic is favored for gene regulation and broader systemic repair with a more controlled copper response.
Dosing and Administration
Injectable GHK-Cu is typically administered via subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.
Common Research Protocols:
- Dose: 2–5 mg daily
- Frequency: 5–7 days per week in cycles of 20–30 days
- Use Sites: SC around injury sites, joints, or systemically in abdomen
Often combined with BPC-157, TB-500, or Epithalon in advanced anti-aging or recovery stacks.
Safety and Side Effects
GHK-Cu is endogenous and well-tolerated, even in older individuals. In experimental and cosmetic use, it shows very low toxicity and an excellent safety record.
Possible side effects (rare):
- Mild injection site irritation
- Temporary increase in vivid dreams or energy
- In high doses: theoretical risk of elevated free copper (rare with responsible dosing)
Tip: Those with Wilson’s disease or known copper metabolism issues should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Conclusion
Injectable GHK-Cu is a multi-functional regenerative peptide that restores, repairs, and rejuvenates on a molecular level. From fading scars to repairing joints to modulating genes for longevity, its wide-ranging benefits are backed by decades of scientific study.
If you’re seeking real, biologically intelligent anti-aging and healing support, GHK-Cu delivers peptide-driven regeneration at the cellular core.