The Molecular Biology of GHK-Cu Copper Tripeptide
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is a human plasma peptide with an exceptionally high affinity for copper(II) ions. First isolated in 1973, GHK-Cu functions as a signaling molecule that resets gene expression back toward a healthier, more youthful state.
It stimulates fibroblasts to synthesize collagen types I and III, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, while simultaneously upregulating matrix metalloproteinases to clear away damaged, disorganized scar tissue.
The Redox Incompatibility: Why Vitamin C Destroys Copper Peptides
L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) is a potent electron donor with an acidic pH (~3.0). When combined with copper peptides, ascorbic acid reduces Cu(II) into Cu(I), causing the copper ion to decouple from the peptide backbone.
This reaction not only deactivates both ingredients but can also generate pro-oxidant free radicals (Fenton-type reaction). Always separate copper peptides and pure vitamin C by using one in the morning and the other in the evening.