Recovery & repair
GHK
Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine
The base form of the copper peptide (without copper binding). A naturally occurring tripeptide that declines with age and plays a major role in wound healing and tissue remodeling.
Also known as: Copper Tripeptide-1, GHK Cu
- Status
- GHK is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use.
- Evidence
- Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
- Half-life
- ~2-4 hours
- How it's taken
- Subcutaneous injection or topical
- Mechanism
- Cosmetic / topical
- Pathways
- Collagen Synthesis
How GHK works
Activates over 4,000 genes involved in tissue repair, switching on regenerative pathways while suppressing inflammatory and destructive genes. Acts as a reset signal telling aged tissues to behave more like young tissues.
What research has looked at
- Comprehensive tissue repair signaling
- Activates regenerative gene expression
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Supports wound healing at multiple stages
Evidence level: Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far. These are areas studied or reported, not promised effects.
Reported side effects and risks
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild irritation possible with injections
- Limited long-term injection data
- Most safety data is from topical use
Sources
- PubMed research on GHK tripeptide glycyl-histidyl-lysine · NIH · National Library of Medicine
- StatPearls / NCBI Bookshelf on GHK peptide · NCBI Bookshelf
- DrugBank record for GHK · DrugBank
Track GHK in Peptide Vault
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GHK FAQ
What is GHK?
The base form of the copper peptide (without copper binding). A naturally occurring tripeptide that declines with age and plays a major role in wound healing and tissue remodeling.
How does GHK work?
Activates over 4,000 genes involved in tissue repair, switching on regenerative pathways while suppressing inflammatory and destructive genes. Acts as a reset signal telling aged tissues to behave more like young tissues.
Is GHK FDA approved?
No. GHK is a research compound and not approved by the FDA for human use. Evidence level: early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
What is the half-life of GHK?
Reported half-life: ~2-4 hours.
How is GHK taken?
Subcutaneous injection or topical.
What side effects have been reported with GHK?
Reported in the sources: Generally well-tolerated; Mild irritation possible with injections; Limited long-term injection data; Most safety data is from topical use.
Educational summary compiled from the sources listed above. Not medical advice. Peptide Vault does not sell, source or recommend any compound. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting or changing anything.