Growth Factors
Evidence: moderate_human
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) that modulates gene expression affecting 31.2% of human genes. It activates Wnt/beta-catenin signaling for hair follicle growth, stimulates TGF-beta pathway for tissue remodeling, and promotes collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while modulating metalloproteinase activity. The copper ion serves as a cofactor for enzymes essential to wound healing including superoxide dismutase and lysyl oxidase.
Standard: Research indicates 1-2 mg daily via subcutaneous injection, or topical application at 1-3% concentration in cream/serum.
Maintenance: Research indicates 1 mg daily or every other day for ongoing skin and tissue maintenance.
Administration: subcutaneoustopicalintradermal
Timing: Evening administration preferred for skin rejuvenation (aligns with nocturnal repair cycles). Topical can be applied morning and evening.
Duration: 8-12 weeks for injectable cycles. Topical use can be ongoing.
GHK-Cu is the cornerstone of the anti-aging stack (Epitalon + GHK-Cu). It was first identified by Loren Pickart in 1973 from human plasma. Gene profiling via the Broad Institute's Connectivity Map showed GHK can reset gene expression patterns toward a healthier state. Topical GHK-Cu has the most human clinical data of any peptide in this class. At 0.01-100 nM, it increases fibroblast production of elastin and collagen.
Pharma-grade for injectable; cosmetic-grade acceptable for topical. Third-party COA essential for copper content verification.
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