GHK-CU

GHK‑Cu is an endogenous copper–peptide complex that acts as a natural signalling molecule involved in metal transport and cellular regulation. It is composed of the tripeptide glycyl‑L‑histidyl‑L‑lysine bound to a divalent copper ion, forming a high‑affinity chelated structure that enables controlled copper handling within biological environments. In biochemical and cellular research, GHK‑Cu influences signalling activity through both its peptide component and the biochemical functions of copper itself. Copper is an essential trace mineral required for a wide range of enzymes and structural proteins that support redox balance, extracellular matrix formation, and metabolic processes. By serving as a carrier and regulator of bioavailable copper, GHK‑Cu contributes to maintaining metal homeostasis and modulating downstream pathways associated with cellular proliferation, differentiation, and tissue remodelling. Across preclinical research systems, GHK‑Cu exposure has been linked to shifts in gene expression and modulation of pathways governing extracellular matrix turnover, oxidative stress responses, and cellular renewal. These outcomes vary according to concentration, exposure duration, and experimental model, making GHK‑Cu a versatile tool for studying copper‑dependent signalling and peptide–metal interactions in both in vitro and in vivo contexts.