Recovery Peptides Anti-aging Growth Factors Under research

GHK-Cu (Péptido de Cobre)

Also known as: Tripéptido de cobre, Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine

GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a copper tripeptide that occurs naturally in human blood plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma concentrations decrease significantly with age (~200 ng/mL at age 20 vs. ~80 ng/mL at age 60). Widely used in clinical cosmetics and under investigation in regenerative medicine.

Mechanism of action

Activation of ~4,000 genes involved in tissue remodeling
Stimulation of collagen I, III, and elastin synthesis in fibroblasts
Inhibition of MMP-1 metalloproteinase (collagen degradation)
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
VEGF and FGF upregulation (angiogenesis and healing)

Uses & indications

Dermal anti-aging: Wrinkle reduction, improved skin firmness and elasticity
Accelerated wound healing and chronic ulcers
Alopecia: Hair growth stimulation
Connective tissue repair (tendons, bones)

Effects

Positive effects: Widely documented in cosmetics (multiple RCTs). Reduction of fine wrinkles within 12 weeks of topical use, improved hair density.

Adverse effects: Minimal. Mild skin irritation at high concentrations (>5% topical). Risk of copper toxicity with excessive systemic use (theoretical).

Considerations & contraindications

Not approved as a drug (FDA/EMA)
Widely regulated as a cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1)
Caution with excessive systemic copper supplementation (Wilson's disease)

Regulatory approval

Not approved as a drug. Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU and USA (INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1). Under investigation for medical applications.

Dosage

Topical: 1–5% in cream/serum. Systemic (research): 50–200 μg/day sc or im.

Storage

Solution: refrigerate at 4°C, protect from light. Powder: room temperature dry storage.

Technical data

Regulatory status Under research

Molecular weight 240.29 Da (libre) / ~412 con Cu²⁺

Half-life Corta (minutos sistémica)

Administration routes Tópica, subcutánea, intradermal