GHK-CU

William A Seed M.D

1/4/20261 min read

This naturally occurring copper peptide occurs in human plasma; However, as people age, they lose the capacity for production. This tripeptide GHK- CU helps activate wound healing, regulate immune response, act as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and stimulate collagen synthesis. Research points to GHK-CU helping to modulate gene expression with anti-aging benefits.

Properties:

  • MW= 403.9242 g/mol

  • Naturally occurring copper complex of GLYCYL-L-HISTIDYL-L-LYSINE peptide.

  • Has a high affinity for copper

  • First isolated from human plasma, but also found in saliva and urine

  • We lose GHK as we age; at age 20, the plasma level of GHK is about 200ng/ml. By age 60, it declines to 80ng/ml.

  • Decline in GHK coincides with a noticeable decrease in the rejuvenative capacity of an organism

Applications:

  • Activates wound healing, including gastric

  • attracts immune cells

  • Is an antioxidant

  • Is an anti- inflammatory

  • Stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in skin fibroblasts

  • Modulates the activity of both metalloproteinases and their inhibitors

  • Improves stem cells

  • Defends against tumors

  • Restores replicative vitality to fibroblasts after radiation therapy

  • Helps regenerate skin; useful for diabetic skin ulcers

In cosmetic products, GHK has been reported to

  • Stimulate hair growth

  • Tighten loose skin

  • Improve elasticity

  • Improve skin density and firmness

  • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Reduce photodamage and hyperpigmentation

  • Stimulate nail growth.

Dosage:

  • 1 to 2mg/day for 6-week intervals

  • can be utilized 3 to 4 times a year

Possible Side Effects:

  • A possibility of copper toxicity; monitor carefully

  • The lunula of the nail turns blue (correct over 4 to 6 weeks)

  • Mild skin irritation (rare, <3% of users)

  • Temporary copper taste when administered systemically

  • Possible allergic reaction to copper (very rare)

  • Minor redness at the injection site

  • Temporary skin sensitivity to sunlight

  • Mild burning sensation upon initial topical application

  • Rare cases of contact dermatitis

  • Potential blue-green staining at high concentrations

Side Effect Management Strategies:

  • Nausea: Take with food, smaller meals, and ginger supplements

  • Vomiting: Slower dose escalation, anti-emetics if severe

  • Diarrhea: Adequate hydration, probiotics, bland diet

  • Constipation: Increase fiber intake, adequate fluids, and light exercise

DO NOT USE:

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • • Wilson's disease or copper metabolism disorders

  • • Known allergy to copper compounds

  • • Severe liver dysfunction

  • • Active skin infections at the application site