GHK-Cu
Copper-binding tripeptide with systemic anti-inflammatory effects and the flagship peptide for skin, collagen, and wound healing.
3 residues· First described 1973
Tripeptide complexed with copper (Cu2+)
Overview
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide that naturally binds one atom of copper. It's found endogenously in plasma at levels that decline sharply with age, and is probably the most research-validated peptide for skin rejuvenation, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. It's the flagship compound of the "Glow Stack" (GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + Epithalon).
Systemic GHK-Cu has meaningful anti-inflammatory effects and upregulates a huge swath of repair-related genes. Topical application concentrates the skin effects but doesn't deliver the same systemic anti-inflammatory benefit.
Because GHK-Cu is a copper carrier, anyone using systemic doses regularly should check serum copper and ceruloplasmin at baseline. Chronic high-dose copper loading can cause problems. Most protocols run short cycles (6–12 weeks) with breaks.
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu upregulates genes involved in collagen synthesis, decorin and glycosaminoglycan production, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory cytokine response. It modulates over 4000 genes in published microarray analyses. Copper is the functional cofactor - it's not just a "peptide" but a peptide-metal complex that ferries copper to enzymes that need it (like lysyl oxidase for collagen cross-linking).
Community Usage Patterns
Systemic: 1–2 mg SC 2–3× per week for 6–12 week cycles. Topical serums: 0.05–0.2% applied once or twice daily to skin. Cycle recommendation: 6–12 weeks on, 4–6 weeks off, to avoid copper loading. Often stacked with BPC-157 (local tissue repair) and Epithalon (pineal/longevity) in the Glow Stack.
Education only - not medical advice. Any protocol change should involve your licensed provider.
Biomarkers to Track
When running GHK-Cu, these are the biomarkers most commonly tracked to assess response and safety:
Reconstitution Calculator
Free calculator for GHK-Cu reconstitution math - vial size, BAC water volume, and exact syringe units.
Open GHK-Cu calculator →Side Effects & Monitoring
What GHK-Cu side effects are commonly reported, when they appear, the red flags worth a provider call, and the biomarkers that catch issues early.
GHK-Cu side effects & what to track →Results & What to Track
What GHK-Cu results actually look like in the data - the markers to measure, when they tend to move, and how to tell a real result from placebo.
GHK-Cu results & how to measure them →Related Peptides
Stacks That Include GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu Head-to-Head Comparisons
Log doses, upload your lab PDFs, and let StackAI read your panel in context of what you're actually running. Free to start.
Start tracking →This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice. MyProtocolStack is a tracking and education platform. Work with a licensed provider before starting, changing, or stopping any protocol.