GHK-Cu is a tripeptide with a high affinity for copper ions, natively found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. The peptide sequence (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) acts as a carrier molecule, facilitating the uptake of copper into cells where it functions as a critical cofactor for numerous enzymes, including cytochrome c oxidase and superoxide dismutase. In its lyophilized form, it typically presents as a distinct blue powder due to the copper binding.

Current laboratory research focuses extensively on its broad-spectrum regenerative properties. In-vitro and animal models utilize GHK-Cu to investigate its ability to upregulate the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans within the extracellular matrix. Furthermore, microarray studies observe its capacity to modulate the expression of multiple human genes, often reverting cellular profiles to a healthier, more robust state while mitigating oxidative stress and inflammatory markers.