GHK-Cu
Copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) studied for skin-remodeling and repair signaling. Lyophilized, HPLC-verified.
Read about GHK-Cu in the peptide library →- Purity (HPLC)
- 99.10%
- Mol. weight
- 404.93
- Retest by
- 2027-04-25
For laboratory research use only.
Overview
GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a sequence originally isolated from human plasma with high affinity for Cu2+. It is a standard reference compound in skin-remodeling, matrix-biology, and copper-transport research. Lot XR26042601-2 assayed at 99.10% by HPLC.
Mechanism
Chelates copper(II) with high affinity and acts as a physiological copper shuttle. Published work describes modulation of matrix metalloproteinases and their TIMP inhibitors, stimulation of collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblasts, and broad shifts in gene expression consistent with tissue-remodeling programs.
Research applications
- Dermal fibroblast collagen and GAG synthesis assays
- MMP / TIMP expression and matrix-remodeling studies
- Copper-transport and chelation chemistry
- Antioxidant and SOD-related enzymatic screens
- Hair-follicle and wound-contraction models
Reconstitution
Allow vial to reach room temperature before opening (at least 20 minutes). Reconstitute with 1.0 to 2.5 mL of sterile bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol). Inject solvent slowly down the inner wall of the vial; do not direct the stream onto the lyophilized cake. Swirl gently for 30 seconds. Do not vortex. Allow to dissolve for 5 minutes; clarity should be complete with no visible particulates.
Storage & handling
Reconstituted solution is stable for 28 days at 2 to 8 C in the original vial. For longer storage, aliquot into low-binding tubes and hold at -80 C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Discard if turbidity, color change, or particulate matter is observed.
Selected references
- 1. Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987.
- 2. Pickart L et al. GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:648108.
GHK-Cu on PubMed
Independent published literature indexed on PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Provided for laboratory research reference only.
- PMID 18644225The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodelingJ Biomater Sci Polym Ed · 2008 · PubMed →
- PMID 39795193Are We Ready to Measure Skin Permeation of Modern Antiaging GHK-Cu Tripeptide Encapsulated in Liposomes?Molecules · 2025 · PubMed →
- PMID 22666519The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging: implications for cognitive healthOxid Med Cell Longev · 2012 · PubMed →
GHK-Cu questions
- What is GHK-Cu?
- GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a sequence originally isolated from human plasma with high affinity for Cu2+. It is supplied as a lyophilized research reference standard.
- What purity is GHK-Cu, and is there a COA?
- Every lot of GHK-Cu is independently verified by Janoshik (reverse-phase HPLC for purity, mass spec for identity) to a ≥99% purity floor. The lot-specific Certificate of Analysis is tied to the number on the vial label and available on request.
- How is GHK-Cu shipped in Canada?
- GHK-Cu ships domestically across Canada, dispatched within 24-48 hours via Canada Post Xpresspost and arriving in about four days. No border to cross, no customs. Flat $25 CAD shipping, free over $200.
- How do I reconstitute GHK-Cu?
- Allow vial to reach room temperature before opening (at least 20 minutes). Reconstitute with 1.0 to 2.5 mL of sterile bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol). Inject solvent slowly down the inner wall of the vial; do not direct the stream onto the lyophilized cake. Swirl gently for 30 seconds. Do not vortex. Allow to dissolve for 5 minutes; clarity should be complete with no visible particulates.
- How should GHK-Cu be stored?
- Reconstituted solution is stable for 28 days at 2 to 8 C in the original vial. For longer storage, aliquot into low-binding tubes and hold at -80 C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Discard if turbidity, color change, or particulate matter is observed.
- Is GHK-Cu legal to buy in Canada?
- GHK-Cu is sold as a laboratory research reference standard, for laboratory research use only. It is legal to sell for that purpose and is not approved by Health Canada as a drug.
