What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide–copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Discovered in 1973, it has been the subject of extensive research for its roles in wound healing, skin regeneration, hair growth, collagen synthesis, and gene expression modulation. GHK-Cu levels decline significantly with age — plasma levels drop from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60.
Research Applications
Studies have shown GHK-Cu can modulate the expression of over 4,000 genes, including upregulating genes involved in collagen production, antioxidant defense, and stem cell differentiation, while downregulating genes associated with inflammation and tissue destruction. It is used in both injectable and topical applications.
Reconstitution
- 5 mg → 2 mL BAC water
- 10 mg → 3 mL BAC water
- 50 mg → 5 mL BAC water (high concentration — consider aliquoting)
- 100 mg → 10 mL BAC water
Dosing
Injectable: 200–2,000 mcg daily subcutaneously. Topical: often formulated as a cream or serum at 1–3% concentration. Large vials (50+ mg) should be aliquoted into smaller sterile vials to avoid contamination from repeated needle punctures.
Educational purposes only.