Peptide Association LLC is a for-profit company. We receive compensation from the clinical providers listed on this site. We are not an accrediting body, a licensing board, or a government-affiliated organization. See exactly how we make money.
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.
Related Peptides in Recovery
BPC-157
Research PhaseA synthetic gastric pentadecapeptide derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis ...
View detailsTB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)
In Clinical TrialsThymosin Beta-4 is a 43-amino acid actin-sequestering protein involved in cell migration, differentiation, and tissue re...
View detailsGHK-Cu
Research PhaseA naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. G...
View detailsDSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)
Research PhaseA naturally occurring nonapeptide (Trp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Asp-Ala-Ser-Gly-Glu) originally isolated from cerebral venous blood o...
View detailsNo lawful pathway today
GHK (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine) is not FDA-approved and does not currently have a lawful prescription or compounding pathway in the United States, so there is nothing for us to sell you here and no consultation to book. That can change: eight peptides moved back to a lawful pathway in February 2026.
Tell me if the status changes
One email, only if this compound's regulatory standing actually moves. Not a newsletter, not a sales sequence.
Join the Association
Access exclusive peptide protocols, provider resources, and community support.
List Your PracticeDisclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.