OnePin Peptide Library · Repair & Recovery
GHK
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine · GHK Tripeptide
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is the same tripeptide sequence as GHK-Cu but WITHOUT the copper ion. It retains cell signaling and gene expression modulation properties but lacks the copper-dependent collagen cross-linking and metalloenzyme activation that makes GHK-Cu uniquely potent. Without copper, GHK has no oxidation concerns and is compatible with a wider range of peptides including VIP and bioregulators. GHK is less commonly used than GHK-Cu because the copper complex provides additional biological activity, but it serves as a safer mixing option where copper incompatibility is a concern.
Same timing as GHK-Cu. Evening preferred. No fasting required.
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
GHK modulates gene expression through direct DNA interaction and transcription factor modulation, upregulating genes involved in tissue repair and downregulating inflammatory genes. Without copper, it cannot activate lysyl oxidase or other copper-dependent enzymes, so collagen cross-linking effects are absent. It retains the ability to influence approximately 4,000 human genes in expression studies, though the magnitude of effect is generally less than GHK-Cu.
GHK modulates gene expression through direct DNA interaction and transcription factor modulation, upregulating genes involved in tissue repair and downregulating inflammatory genes. Without copper, it cannot activate lysyl oxidase or other copper-dependent enzymes, so collagen cross-linking effects are absent. It retains the ability to influence approximately 4,000 human genes in expression studies, though the magnitude of effect is generally less than GHK-Cu.
What to expect
Days 1-14: Minimal changes.
Weeks 2-6: Subtle tissue support.
Weeks 6-12: Cumulative gene expression effects.
Evidence
The honest take
Copper-free alternative
Confirmed. GHK without copper is compatible with VIP, bioregulators, and other copper-sensitive peptides. Trade-off is reduced biological potency.
Interactions & stacking
What's safe to combine, and what belongs in a separate pin.
Safe & synergistic
Keep separate
Side effects & safety
Commonly reported
- Well tolerated
- Mild injection site irritation
Less common & notes
- No copper-related concerns.
- Excellent safety profile.
Pharmacokinetics
Storage. Standard BAC water 2-8C. Stable for 28 days. No copper oxidation concerns.
Regulatory status
Available as research peptide. Not FDA-approved. No WADA prohibition.
Put it to work
Calculate, log & track
Open GHK straight into OnePin with your vial and dose pre-filled, then let it handle the syringe math and remind you before the vial runs out.
Open GHK in the app →Go deeper
The guide & community
The complete GHK walkthrough, real protocol discussion and coaching live inside the BlessUp community on Skool.
Join the community ↗