GHK-Cu studies
91 journal papers mention GHK-Cu in the title or abstract. Here are the most cited, the latest, and a few facts about the literature.
Studies range from laboratory work to clinical trials. A paper listed here is not an endorsement and says nothing about whether GHK-Cu is safe, effective or approved for any use.
- Papers
- 91
- 83 articles, 8 reviews
- Earliest paper
- 1992
- Most papers in 2026 (33)
- Open access
- 59%
- free to read somewhere
- Reviews
- 9%
- of all papers listed
What kind of studies
Of 84 papers in PubMed that mention GHK-Cu in the title or abstract, by the study type PubMed records. Categories overlap, so they do not add up to the total.
- Randomized controlled trials1
- Other clinical trials0
- Meta-analyses and systematic reviews0
- Other reviews14
- Case reports0
- Animal studies only13
- Studies in humans33
Study types are tags assigned by publishers and PubMed indexers; very new papers are often not tagged yet, and a tag is not a quality rating. Retracted papers are excluded. Source: PubMed (NCBI).
Registered clinical studies
Studies on ClinicalTrials.gov that mention GHK-Cu in their intervention details. A registration says a study is planned or running, not what it found.
- Registered
- 4
- Completed
- 1
- Ongoing or planned
- 3
- Phase 1
- 0
- Phase 2
- 1
- Phase 3
- 0
- Systemic and Topical Geroprotective Rejuvenation Assessed by START/REST Aging Clocks
NCT07888595Enrolling by invitationEarly phase 1started 2026-10-21
- Two-Part Study of the Effects of the X39 Patch on Circulating GHK and GHK-Cu Levels in Healthy Adults
NCT07706361Not yet recruitingstarted 2027-01
- Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing
NCT07437586RecruitingPhase 2started 2026-02-02
- Trial Assessing the Impact on Facial Skin Quality, Hydration, and Skin Barrier of Three (3) Hydrafacial Treatments in Adults of All Skin Types.
NCT05932732CompletedPhase 4started 2023-11-20
The five most recently updated studies. See all 4 on ClinicalTrials.gov. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Studies are found by the compound's name, so a few may be about something else.
Papers per year
1997 to 2026, peak 33 papers in a year. The latest year may still be incomplete.
Where it is published
- Life Sciences3 papers
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences2 papers
- The American Journal of Sports Medicine2 papers
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology2 papers
- Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery2 papers
The papers
Most citedName in the title
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data
Loren Pickart, Anna Margolina · International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 2018
ReviewOpen access · CC BY158 citationsRead the open copy →
- The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice
Jeong-Ran Park, Hanbyeol Lee, Seok-In Kim et al. · Oncotarget · 2016
Animal studyOpen access · CC BY60 citationsRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu may Prevent Oxidative Stress in Skin by Regulating Copper and Modifying Expression of Numerous Antioxidant Genes
Loren Pickart, Jessica Michelle Vasquez-Soltero, Anna Margolina · Cosmetics · 2015
Open access · CC BY48 citationsRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu/Pionin-loaded in situ electrospun PVB/PVP smart dressing promotes wound healing via anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue regenerative effects
Yan Wang, Zhichao Zheng, Janak Lal. Pathak et al. · Chemical Engineering Journal · 2024
Open access34 citationsRead the open copy →
- Liposomes as Carriers of GHK-Cu Tripeptide for Cosmetic Application
Michał Dymek, Karolina Olechowska, Katarzyna Hąc-Wydro et al. · Pharmaceutics · 2023
Open access · CC BY32 citationsRead the open copy →
- Effects of GHK-Cu on MMP and TIMP Expression, Collagen and Elastin Production, and Facial Wrinkle Parameters
Travis Badenhorst, Darren M. Svirskis, Mervyn J. Merrilees · Journal of Aging Science · 2016
Open access30 citationsRead the open copy →
- Tripeptide–copper complex GHK‐Cu (II) transiently improved healing outcome in a rat model of ACL reconstruction
Sai‐Chuen Fu, Yau‐Chuk Cheuk, Wai Yin Vivien Chiu et al. · Journal of Orthopaedic Research® · 2015
Animal studyOpen access25 citationsRead the open copy →
- Synergy of GHK‐Cu and hyaluronic acid on collagen IV upregulation via fibroblast and ex‐vivo skin tests
Fangru Jiang, Yanan Wu, Zhe Liu et al. · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2023
Study in humansOpen access · CC BY18 citationsRead the open copy →
- In Vitro and in Vivo Studies of pH-Sensitive GHK-Cu-Incorporated Polyaspartic and Polyacrylic Acid Superabsorbent Polymer
Shilpa Sharma, Mohammad Faiyaz Anwar, Amit Kumar Dinda et al. · ACS Omega · 2019
Open access13 citationsRead the open copy →
- Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK–Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?
Karolina Ogórek, Kinga Nowak, Emilia Wadych et al. · Molecules · 2025
ReviewOpen access · CC BY9 citationsRead the open copy →
- Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms
Shuzhen Mao, Jiahui Huang, Junyan Li et al. · Frontiers in Pharmacology · 2025
Open access · CC BY6 citationsRead the open copy →
- BPC-157 and GHK-Cu in Wound Healing and Tissue Repair: A Review of Clinical Efficacy and Safety
Olaf Wojcieszuk, Łukasz Starczewski, Adrianna Babik et al. · Quality in Sport · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NC-SA2 citationsRead the open copy →
- Double-Blind Testing of the Lifewave X39 Patch to Determine GHK-Cu Production Levels
Internal Medicine Research – Open Journal · 2021
Open access2 citationsRead the open copy →
- The Effect of the Human Plasma Molecule GHK-Cu on Stem Cell Actions and Expression of Relevant Genes
Loren Pickart, Anna Margolina · OBM Geriatrics · 2018
Open access · CC BY2 citationsRead the open copy →
- Microagulhamento associado ao PDRN e ao GHK-Cu na estética regenerativa: revisão integrativa das evidências científicas
Karolini Costa Catarina Both, André Luiz Snak · Revista fisio&terapia. · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap
Diana-Maria Mateescu, Dragos-Mihai Gavrilescu, Ruxandra-Ioana Mincioaga et al. · Pharmaceutics · 2026
ReviewOpen access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed‐Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK‐Cu
Jingyi Wang, Kan Tao, Hu Huang et al. · Skin Research and Technology · 2026
Study in humansOpen access · CC BY-NC-NDRead the open copy →
- A Torilis japonica Extract–GHK-Cu Complex Attenuates Th2 Cytokines and Promotes Keratinocyte Recovery: A Potential Antioxidant Strategy for Atopic Dermatitis
Soojin Jeon, Jihye Maeng, Jiwon Lee et al. · Antioxidants · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu Tripeptide: A Multifunctional Cosmeceutical Agent with Advanced Delivery Strategies for Enhanced Topical Efficacy
Dr. Nita Sharma Das · International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Innovation. · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NCRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu NA MEDICINA REGENERATIVA: MECANISMOS MOLECULARES, APLICAÇÕES CLÍNICAS E PERSPECTIVAS TERAPÊUTICAS EM UMA METANÁLISE
Inaê Tatiana DIAS, Djefini Rumie de Carvalho, Fernando Araújo de Oliveira Machado et al. · Revista Ibero-Americana de Humanidades, Ciências e Educação · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- GHK-CU MEDIATED ADIPOSE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX REMODELING: TRANSLATIONAL IMPLICATIONS FOR LIPEDEMA AND GYNOID LIPODYSTROPHY
Luiz Felippe Mendes Caquetti · INTERNATIONAL BLEST SCIENTIFIC · 2026
Open accessRead the open copy →
- A Systematic Review of the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications of GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine-Copper Complex) in Topical Microneedle Delivery: A Case for Expanded Clinical Trials
Niayesh Najafi, Hussein Maatouk, Karapet Gary Vardanyan et al. · Archives of Internal Medicine Research · 2026
ReviewOpen accessRead the open copy →
- Hypothesis of the mechanism of action of acupuncture through GHK-Cu
Juan Pablo Moltó Ripoll, Gustavo Roberto Cointry · International Journal of Health Science · 2024
Open accessRead the open copy →
LatestName in title or abstract
- Characterization of copper tripeptide–loaded lipid carriers and their stability in complex cosmetic matrices
Karolina Ogórek, Maria Mierzwa, Marcin Drozd et al. · Journal of Chromatography A · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Microagulhamento associado ao PDRN e ao GHK-Cu na estética regenerativa: revisão integrativa das evidências científicas
Karolini Costa Catarina Both, André Luiz Snak · Revista fisio&terapia. · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu as a Bioactive Metallopeptide and Drug-Delivery Cargo: Coordination Chemistry, Formulation Science, Therapeutic Evidence, and a Translational Roadmap
Diana-Maria Mateescu, Dragos-Mihai Gavrilescu, Ruxandra-Ioana Mincioaga et al. · Pharmaceutics · 2026
ReviewOpen access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- The peptide boom: a critical appraisal of evidence, patient safety risks, and regulatory failure in the experimental wellness peptide market
Giorgi Pkhakadze · Georgian Medical Journal · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Aplicações dos Peptídeos de Cobre na Prevenção da Senescência Cutânea e no Rejuvenescimento Facial
Juliana Martins Ferreira, Ticiany de Fátima de Souza Duarte, Leandro Rago de Souza et al. · Brazilian Journal of Implantology and Health Sciences · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Peptide Supplements and Their Therapeutic Applications in Sports Medicine
Kushagra Tewari, Timothy P. Liu, Christina Im et al. · The American Journal of Sports Medicine · 2026
Open access · CC BY1 citationsRead the open copy →
- Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed‐Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK‐Cu
Jingyi Wang, Kan Tao, Hu Huang et al. · Skin Research and Technology · 2026
Study in humansOpen access · CC BY-NC-NDRead the open copy →
- Peptide-Based Approaches for Extracellular Matrix Remodeling, Senescence Modulation, and Topical Delivery in Adult and Aging Skin
Seamus C. C. Phan · International Multispeciality Journal of Health · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- A Torilis japonica Extract–GHK-Cu Complex Attenuates Th2 Cytokines and Promotes Keratinocyte Recovery: A Potential Antioxidant Strategy for Atopic Dermatitis
Soojin Jeon, Jihye Maeng, Jiwon Lee et al. · Antioxidants · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Copper peptide activated cascade catalysis for glucose regulation and hypoxia reversing in infected diabetic wound healing
Zeng-Jin Huang, Rui-Feng Huang, Ping-Ping Jiao et al. · Materials Today Bio · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NC-ND1 citationsRead the open copy →
- Emerging Peptide Therapies in Orthopaedics: Evidence, Safety, and Perioperative Implications
Ahmed Siddiqi, Khalid Yousuf, Paul B. Jacob · Journal of Orthopaedic Experience & Innovation · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NC-NDRead the open copy →
- ESTÉTICA REGENERATIVA BASEADA EM BIOENERGIA CELULAR: APLICAÇÃO DE NAD+ E GHKCU NA MODULAÇÃO DO ENVELHECIMENTO CUTÂNEO
Daniela Baptistini Moleiro, Carlos Ruiz da Silva, Fernanda Sanches Kuhi Antunes · Revista Tópicos. · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Microenvironment-responsive injectable dynamic hydrogel for sequential antioxidant and tissue regeneration therapy of radiation-induced skin injury
Xiaorui Yu, Tingyu Yang, Zhongwu Bei et al. · Bioactive Materials · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NC-ND3 citationsRead the open copy →
- BPC-157 and GHK-Cu in Wound Healing and Tissue Repair: A Review of Clinical Efficacy and Safety
Olaf Wojcieszuk, Łukasz Starczewski, Adrianna Babik et al. · Quality in Sport · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NC-SA2 citationsRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu Tripeptide: A Multifunctional Cosmeceutical Agent with Advanced Delivery Strategies for Enhanced Topical Efficacy
Dr. Nita Sharma Das · International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Innovation. · 2026
Open access · CC BY-NCRead the open copy →
- Therapeutic peptides in gerontology: mechanisms and applications for healthy aging
Volodymyr Mavrych, Inna Shypilova, Olena Bolgova · Frontiers in Aging · 2026
ReviewOpen access · CC BY5 citationsRead the open copy →
- GHK-Cu NA MEDICINA REGENERATIVA: MECANISMOS MOLECULARES, APLICAÇÕES CLÍNICAS E PERSPECTIVAS TERAPÊUTICAS EM UMA METANÁLISE
Inaê Tatiana DIAS, Djefini Rumie de Carvalho, Fernando Araújo de Oliveira Machado et al. · Revista Ibero-Americana de Humanidades, Ciências e Educação · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- Reprogramming Skin Aging: A Regenerative and Epigenetic Perspective on Cutaneous Longevity
Diala Haykal, Michael Gold, Edward Lain et al. · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2026
Open access · CC BY1 citationsRead the open copy →
- GHK-CU MEDIATED ADIPOSE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX REMODELING: TRANSLATIONAL IMPLICATIONS FOR LIPEDEMA AND GYNOID LIPODYSTROPHY
Luiz Felippe Mendes Caquetti · INTERNATIONAL BLEST SCIENTIFIC · 2026
Open accessRead the open copy →
- Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions
Omar F. Rahman, Steven J. Lee, William A. Seeds · JAAOS Global Research and Reviews · 2026
ReviewOpen access · CC BY-NC-ND5 citationsRead the open copy →
- Smart Healing for Wound Repair: Emerging Multifunctional Strategies in Personalized Regenerative Medicine and Their Relevance to Orthopedics
Carla Renata Arciola, Veronica Panichi, Gloria Bua et al. · Antibiotics · 2026
ReviewOpen access · CC BY9 citationsRead the open copy →
- A Systematic Review of the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications of GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine-Copper Complex) in Topical Microneedle Delivery: A Case for Expanded Clinical Trials
Niayesh Najafi, Hussein Maatouk, Karapet Gary Vardanyan et al. · Archives of Internal Medicine Research · 2026
ReviewOpen accessRead the open copy →
- Copper Tripeptide Associated with Photobiomodulation in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Case Report
Fabrini P, Fabrini P, Centrone N · Journal of Clinical Case Studies · 2026
Open access · CC BYRead the open copy →
- (197) Peptides in Practice: Evaluating Efficacy and Safety in Men’s Health
R Arora, Arjun K. Venkatesh, Gene Austin Krishingner et al. · The Journal of Sexual Medicine · 2025
Open accessRead the open copy →
- Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms
Shuzhen Mao, Jiahui Huang, Junyan Li et al. · Frontiers in Pharmacology · 2025
Open access · CC BY6 citationsRead the open copy →
- Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK–Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?
Karolina Ogórek, Kinga Nowak, Emilia Wadych et al. · Molecules · 2025
ReviewOpen access · CC BY9 citationsRead the open copy →
- Food-Derived Tripeptide–Copper Self-Healing Hydrogel for Infected Wound Healing
Han Chen, P S Yang, Ping Xue et al. · Biomaterials Research · 2025
Open access · CC BY35 citationsRead the open copy →
Each list shows up to 40 papers.See all 91 on OpenAlex. Source: OpenAlex (CC0), journal articles and reviews with a DOI, retractions excluded, refreshed weekly, last 4 Nov 2026, 08:27 UTC. Papers are listed by their metadata only; follow the links to read them. A license shown on an open copy is the license the publisher or repository states for that copy.