Overview

Naturally occurring copper-binding peptide with powerful regenerative properties. Stimulates collagen, promotes wound healing, and has anti-aging effects.

Global Regulatory Status

Approval status across major regulatory agencies worldwide.

FDA
United States
Research
TGA
Australia
Not Approved
EMA
European Union
Not Approved
MHRA
United Kingdom
Not Approved
PMDA
Japan
Not Approved
NMPA
China
Not Approved
Note: "Unknown" status indicates that comprehensive regulatory information is not yet available in our database. This does not necessarily mean the peptide is not approved. For critical medical decisions, always verify current regulatory status with the relevant health authority.

Mechanism of Action

Stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, acts as antioxidant, remodels tissue matrix via metalloproteinase regulation.

Stability & Storage

Form Storage Conditions Shelf Life
Lyophilised
(Freeze-Dried)		 Store powder at -20°C for long-term (12-24 months) or at 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Copper complex is relatively stable in dry form. Protect from light. 12-24 months
Reconstituted
Solution		 After reconstitution, store at 2-8°C for up to 14 days. Copper complex may oxidize over time; use within recommended period. Topical formulations: 3-6 months at room temperature. 14 days
⚠️ Storage Best Practices
  • Always store in original packaging until ready to use
  • Protect from light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations
  • Never refreeze after thawing
  • Use proper sterile technique when reconstituting
  • Discard if solution becomes cloudy or discolored

Target Information

Target Receptors
Integrin receptors, TGF-β receptor pathway, metalloproteinase modulation
Target Tissues
  • Skin (dermis and epidermis)
  • hair follicles
  • vascular endothelium
  • bone
  • neuronal tissue
Target Organs
  • Skin
  • hair follicles
  • blood vessels
  • bone
  • nervous system
  • lungs

Pharmacokinetics: Half-Life by Administration Route

The biological half-life varies significantly depending on the route of administration. This affects dosing frequency and duration of action.

Administration Route Half-Life Clinical Implications
Subcutaneous (SC) Approximately 1-2 hours in systemic circulation. However, tissue retention is longer with local effe Slower absorption, sustained release, most common route
Topical Limited systemic absorption; acts locally Local action, minimal systemic absorption

Note: Half-life values can vary between individuals based on factors including age, metabolism, kidney/liver function, and co-administered medications.

Molecular Structure

Amino Acid Sequence

2D Chemical Structure

Interactive 2D structure rendered from SMILES notation

3D Molecular Model

3D structure model will be available soon

Structure visualization powered by 3Dmol.js (integration pending)

Peptide Composition & Modifications

Amino Acid Composition

Natural L-Amino Acids
3 residues
Total Length
3 amino acids

Terminus Modifications

N-Terminus (Amino Terminus)
Free NH2 (Glycine)
C-Terminus (Carboxyl Terminus)
Free COOH (Lysine)

Terminal modifications can protect against exopeptidase degradation and modulate biological activity.

Nomenclature

Standard Abbreviation
GHK-Cu
Also Known As
  • Copper Peptide GHK
  • Tripeptide-1 Copper
  • Gly-His-Lys Copper Complex

Dosage & Administration

Topical: 0.1-3% formulations. Injectable research doses: 1-3 mg weekly, SC

⚠️ Medical Supervision Required

This information is for educational purposes only. Dosing should only be determined by a qualified healthcare provider based on individual patient needs and medical history.

Research & Clinical Status

Extensively studied since 1970s. Widely used in cosmetics. Injectable forms investigational.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or medication. The information provided here is based on available scientific literature and may not be complete or up-to-date.