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GHK-Cu

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Copper Tripeptide-1Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine Copper C

A naturally occurring copper tripeptide (3 amino acids + Cu²⁺) studied in vitro and in cell-culture models for its interaction with extracellular-matrix and collagen-synthesis pathways. For laboratory research use only.

All products currently listed on this site are for research purposes only.

Price range: $45.00 through $65.00

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How GHK-Cu Works

The Science, Simplified

Epigenetic Gene Modulation

In research models, GHK-Cu has been studied for its interaction with gene-expression pathways, with observed modulation of a large set of genes involved in extracellular-matrix and cellular signaling.
Research note: In these in-vitro observations, GHK-Cu has been associated with modulation of DNA-repair-related and inflammatory-pathway genes.

Collagen & ECM Synthesis

In research models, GHK-Cu has been studied as a signal associated with fibroblast production of Type I and III collagen, as well as elastin and glycosaminoglycans.

Research note: In in-vitro dermatological research models, GHK-Cu has been studied for its association with fibroblast collagen synthesis.

Copper Transport & Antioxidant Defense

The peptide acts as a high-affinity carrier, delivering essential copper (Cu²⁺) ions into cells to activate key antioxidant enzymes like Superoxide Dismutase (SOD).

Research note: In research models, copper stabilization by GHK-Cu has been associated with modulation of lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6.

Follicular Signaling (Research Models)

In cell-culture research models, GHK-Cu has been studied for its association with hair-follicle cell proliferation.

Research note: In controlled in-vitro studies, GHK-Cu has been studied for its association with follicular cell activity via a distinct molecular mechanism.

Research Handling Notes

What research literature describes

GHK-Cu is one of the most extensively characterized tripeptides in the research literature; it occurs naturally in biological systems and is handled as a stable research compound.

🧿 Handling & Storage Notes

5%

Store lyophilized at -20°C

mild

3%

Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water

Transient

2%

Protect from light exposure

mild

Research Characteristics

Molecular Efficiency

In research models, this peptide interacts with existing biological pathways rather than forcing a synthetic response.

Compound Information

Technical specifications for each component

🔬 Molecular Profile

What Is GHK-Cu?

CAS Number

89030-95-5

Molecular Weight

340.38 g/mol (free peptide)

Molecular Weight (Cu)

401.91 g/mol (with copper)

Amino Acids

3 (tripeptide)

Sequence

Gly-His-Lys

Formula

C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄·Cu

🧊 Storage Requirements

Stability Information

Lyophilized (powder)

-20°C

up to 2 years

Reconstituted

2-8°C •

up to 30 days

📋 Research Status

Where Each Stands

Classification

Dermal & Extracellular-Matrix Research Compound

Origin

Human Plasma (Discovered 1973)

GHK-Cu studies

4,000+ publications

Cited studies

50+ published studies

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). It was first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. It occurs naturally in biological systems and is a subject of biochemical and molecular research.
The deep blue color is the natural physical property of the peptide once it binds with copper ions. In the research community, the "Blue Plug" is considered a hallmark of high-quality, authentic GHK-Cu.
In dermatological research models, GHK-Cu has been studied as an extracellular-matrix "remodeling" signal, with observed association to turnover of collagen and elastin in in-vitro and cell-culture studies.
This compound is supplied strictly as a research chemical for laboratory research use only. It is studied in cosmetic-science research and is not FDA-approved for any use. It is not for human or animal use.
In the laboratory, lyophilized GHK-Cu is typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic or sterile water and stored per standard laboratory protocols. Handling depends entirely on the researcher's specific study design. For laboratory research use only.

Sources & References

Peer-reviewed research

Journal of Cosmetic Science

A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of GHK-Cu facial cream

2005

Finkley et al.

Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy

Stimulation of collagen production by copper-peptide complex

2007

Appa Y et al.

Journal of Aging Science and Clinical Practice

Effects of GHK-Cu in nano-carriers on MMP expression and facial dermal parameters

2009

Gorouhi F, Maibach HI

Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery

Effects of Topical Copper Tripeptide Complex on CO2 Laser-Resurfaced Skin

2006

Miller TR et al.

Various Sources

GHK-Cu effects on hair follicle growth and size

2020

Multiple researchers

Multiple Sources

GHK-Cu physicochemical and reconstitution characterization

2018

Various research sources

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

Anti-inflammatory effects of GHK-Cu

2012

Campbell JD et al.

For laboratory research use only; not for human or animal use. This product is sold exclusively for research and educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

All research findings presented on this page are sourced from peer-reviewed journals and official publications. They are provided for educational reference only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or product claims.

By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a qualified researcher and will use it in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.