GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for wound healing, skin regeneration, collagen synthesis, and hair; research protocols typically use 0.5-5 mg daily subcutaneously, building up slowly because copper stings.
It has been studied for wound healing, skin regeneration, collagen and elastin synthesis, anti-aging skin appearance, hair, and antioxidant/anti-inflammatory activity.
GHK-Cu is a copper(II)-binding tripeptide with the amino acid sequence glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, occurring naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine; circulating levels have been reported to decline with age (roughly 200 ng/mL at age 20 to about 80 ng/mL by age 60). Rather than acting on a classical single receptor, research characterizes it as a signaling and copper-carrier peptide that modulates the extracellular matrix: studies report it stimulates synthesis of collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans such as decorin, while also modulating matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors during tissue remodeling. It has additionally been studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and for broad gene-expression modulation.
GHK-Cu is not an FDA-approved drug; it appears in cosmetic formulations and is otherwise handled as a research compound, and injectable use is not FDA-approved.
In the founder's handbook the typical research approach is roughly 1-2 mg per day administered subcutaneously, while much of the published literature instead examines topical and cosmetic formulations.
Research timelines vary by model and route, with cell and animal wound-healing studies reporting effects over days to weeks and topical cosmetic studies typically assessing skin changes over several weeks.
In research and recovery-oriented stacks it is commonly discussed alongside BPC-157 and TB-500 for tissue repair, and in skin contexts alongside topical collagen-support agents.
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This page is educational reference material about compounds studied in research settings. It is not medical advice, and nothing here is a recommendation to buy, possess, or use any compound. Research findings described are from published literature; individual compounds may not be approved for human use. Talk to a licensed clinician about anything that affects your health.