Collagen & Periodontal Health
GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine · Copper Tripeptide
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide that activates collagen synthesis genes, inhibits the enzymes that degrade periodontal ligament fibers, and provides antioxidant protection — slowing the biological aging of your oral connective tissues.
What It Is & How It Works
What is it?
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide (glycine–histidine–lysine) complexed with copper (Cu²⁺) that occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma concentrations decline significantly with age — from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60 — making it a compelling target for age-related tissue maintenance and periodontal health.
How does it work?
GHK-Cu activates genes encoding collagen I, III, and elastin production while simultaneously downregulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) — the enzymes responsible for degrading periodontal ligament fibers in periodontitis. It also has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing oxidative stress in gingival and joint tissue.
Periodontal & TMJ application
GHK-Cu supports the maintenance and regeneration of the periodontal ligament — the connective tissue that anchors teeth to alveolar bone. In the TMJ context, it promotes collagen remodeling of the articular disc and joint capsule, slowing degenerative changes associated with aging and chronic function.
Key Benefits
- Activates collagen I, III, and elastin gene expression for tissue maintenance and repair
- Inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that destroy periodontal ligament fibers in periodontitis
- Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in gingival and TMJ tissue
- Supports TMJ articular disc collagen remodeling and joint capsule integrity
- Accelerates wound healing following periodontal surgery
- Natural plasma levels decline with age — supplementation addresses this biological deficit
Key Benefits
Subcutaneous Injection
Most effective systemic delivery · administered per your prescribed protocol
Topical / Local Application
Applied directly to gingival tissue in some periodontal protocols — in-office or as prescribed
Note: GHK-Cu is often combined with BPC-157 or Thymosin Beta-4 in multi-peptide TMJ or periodontal protocols for synergistic collagen support and anti-inflammatory effect.
Possible Side Effects
- Mild injection site reaction (transient)
- Rare: temporary skin discoloration at injection site
- Very low systemic side effect profile
- No hormonal effects
Important: GHK-Cu has an extensive safety record across decades of research in cosmetic and medical applications. Copper accumulation is not a concern at therapeutic peptide doses. As with any injectable, sterile technique is essential — your provider will instruct you fully.
What to Expect
GHK-Cu works progressively as a tissue remodeling agent. Meaningful collagen-level changes develop over 6–12 weeks of consistent use. Periodontal health improvements are typically assessed at your 3-month recall appointment. It is most effective when used alongside professional periodontal scaling and root planing, not as a standalone intervention.
Regulatory Status
GHK-Cu is available as a compounded peptide through FDA-regulated compounding pharmacies. It is prescribed off-label for the indications described above. Your provider will discuss full regulatory status, sourcing, and informed consent before initiating your protocol.