GHK
low riskAlso: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine · Free GHK peptide · GHK tripeptide
GHK (without copper) is the free tripeptide precursor to GHK-Cu, with its own documented biological activity. Found naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, declining with age. Independently upregulates collagen synthesis and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Reported Benefits
Wound healing
Accelerates wound closure via fibroblast stimulation and ECM remodeling.
Anti-inflammatory
Reduces TGF-β1-driven fibrosis and inflammatory cytokine expression.
Mechanism of Action
Independent of copper chelation: binds decorin and other ECM proteoglycans; modulates TGF-β signaling; upregulates VEGF, collagen, and fibronectin.
GHK vs. GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu (with copper) has the stronger clinical evidence and more studies. Free GHK has its own biological activity independent of copper coordination — relevant for formulations where copper stability is an issue.
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Regulatory Status
503A ListedSafety Profile
Side Effects
- •Minimal
Primary Uses
Used For
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