GHK
Regenerative TripeptideresearchAlso known as: Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine, GHK Tripeptide, Liver Cell Growth Factor Fragment
A naturally occurring tripeptide that resets gene expression to a younger state, promoting wound healing, collagen synthesis, and anti-inflammatory effects — the copper-free precursor to GHK-Cu.
Overview
GHK (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine) is a naturally occurring tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in 1973. It was discovered as a factor in young human plasma that could restore the protein synthesis of aged liver tissue to a younger state. GHK is the base peptide that, when complexed with copper(II), forms GHK-Cu. However, GHK itself — without copper — has significant biological activity, particularly in gene expression regulation. Microarray studies have shown that GHK can modulate the expression of over 4,000 genes, resetting many to a pattern associated with younger tissue. It upregulates genes involved in wound healing, collagen synthesis, and anti-inflammatory responses while suppressing genes associated with inflammation, tissue destruction, and cancer metastasis. GHK is used both in cosmetics (topical) and as a research peptide for its gene-modulatory and tissue-repair properties.
Mechanism of Action
GHK modulates gene expression and tissue repair: (1) Resets expression of 4,000+ human genes toward a healthier, younger pattern; (2) Upregulates collagen I, III, and IV gene expression in fibroblasts; (3) Stimulates decorin and other proteoglycan production; (4) Suppresses fibrinogen and inflammatory gene networks; (5) Activates ubiquitin-proteasome system for removal of damaged proteins; (6) Upregulates DNA repair genes; (7) Suppresses genes associated with metastasis (CEACAM1, LYPD3); (8) Has intrinsic copper-binding affinity that can chelate and deliver trace copper to tissues.
Molecular Formula
C14H24N6O4
Molecular Weight
340.38 g/mol
Sequence
Gly-His-Lys
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
0.01% concentration – 0.1% concentration
Frequency
Twice daily
Route
topical
Cycle Length
Ongoing
Applied to face and neck. Can be formulated with or without copper complexation. Results visible after 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
Source: Cosmeceutical studies
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
50mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
Base tripeptide without copper. Less common than GHK-Cu. Research vendor pricing.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation (topical) | mild |
| Injection site reaction | mild |
Pros & Cons
Modulates 4,000+ genes toward a younger expression pattern — broad anti-aging effects
Natural human peptide with excellent safety profile and decades of research
Active both topically and systemically
Suppresses cancer-related gene networks while promoting repair genes
Less potent than GHK-Cu for wound healing and many applications
Small peptide with relatively short half-life in circulation
Gene expression changes take time — not fast-acting
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
Commercially available as a cosmetic ingredient and research chemical. No prescription required. No regulatory restrictions. Not a drug in most jurisdictions.
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