GHK (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine)
Overview
GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide with high affinity for copper ions, forming the GHK-Cu complex. It is present in human plasma, saliva, and urine at concentrations that decline with age.
Mechanism of Action
The peptide modulates extracellular matrix remodeling, metalloproteinase activity, and growth factor signaling, contributing to wound healing and tissue repair processes.
Research Summary & Key Findings
In vitro studies have demonstrated enhanced collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and antioxidant enzyme expression in cultured fibroblasts. Animal wound healing models have shown accelerated closure and improved tissue organization with topical or systemic GHK-Cu administration. Small human studies in dermatology have reported improvements in photoaging and skin elasticity, but large randomized controlled trials are lacking.
Clinical Status
GHK (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine) is in the investigational stage. While preclinical and early-phase data exist, it has not received regulatory approval for clinical use in the United States.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "GHK"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "GHK"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "GHK"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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