Written by the AllMyPeptides Research Team
What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It was first isolated in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart and has since become one of the most studied peptides in tissue remodelling and matrix biology research.
GHK-Cu consists of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine — that form a specific binding site for copper ions (Cu²⁺). The peptide acts as a copper transporter, carrying copper to cells where it participates in enzymatic reactions related to tissue repair and remodelling.
At AllMyPeptides, GHK-Cu is supplied in lyophilised form at 50mg and 100mg vial sizes, independently tested to 99%+ HPLC purity with a matched COA.
Chemical Structure
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide with the sequence Gly-His-Lys that chelates a copper ion (Cu²⁺) at the histidine residue. Its molecular formula is C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄ and its molecular weight is approximately 340.4 g/mol (without copper) or 403.9 g/mol as the copper complex.
Mechanisms Studied
Research has explored GHK-Cu role in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) regulation, where it appears to modulate MMP expression in fibroblast cultures; collagen and elastin synthesis, with studies showing upregulation of these proteins in dermal fibroblasts; angiogenesis, through VEGF-mediated pathways; and anti-inflammatory effects, via suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cell models.
GHK-Cu Research Context
GHK-Cu has been studied extensively since its discovery in 1973. Research areas include: dermal fibroblast studies showing effects on collagen I, III, and elastin production; wound healing research exploring its role in keratinocyte migration and granulation tissue formation; hair follicle research investigating effects on follicle size and hair shaft diameter; and lung tissue repair studies looking at its effects on alveolar remodelling. All research has been conducted in vitro or in animal models — no human clinical trials have been completed.
Storage Guidelines
GHK-Cu requires careful storage due to its copper complex:
- Lyophilised: Store at -20°C in a sealed, opaque container. The copper complex is photosensitive.
- Reconstituted: Store at 2-8°C, protected from light. Use within 30 days.
- Light sensitivity: The Cu²⁺ complex can degrade with UV exposure. Always use amber vials or foil wrapping.
- Avoid freezing reconstituted: Freezing causes copper dissociation and peptide aggregation.
References
GHK-Cu is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research use only. The peer-reviewed references below are provided for research context and do not imply that the compound is safe or effective for use in humans.
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987. View source
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:648108. View source
Frequently Asked Questions
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