Copper Peptide

Copper peptides are naturally occurring compounds formed when small peptides chelate copper(II) ions, creating a stable peptide-metal complex with distinct biological activity. The most well-known copper peptide is GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper), a tripeptide that occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations declining significantly with age. Copper peptides participate in numerous biological processes including collagen and elastin synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, and antioxidant enzyme regulation such as superoxide dismutase. They have been extensively studied for their roles in wound healing, skin remodeling, hair follicle stimulation, and anti-inflammatory signalling. The copper ion itself is essential as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in tissue repair and extracellular matrix remodelling.