GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide) – Research Grade
GHK-Cu peptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified and developed by Loren Pickart in 1973 . Found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, GHK-Cu peptide plays a central role in tissue repair, acting as both a signal peptide and a carrier peptide for copper ions . The complex combines the tripeptide GHK with a copper (II) ion, forming a stable chelate that delivers copper to target tissues .
As one of the most extensively studied copper peptides, GHK-Cu is valued in research for its ability to promote extracellular matrix remodeling, stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, and exert potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects .
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu peptide functions through multiple biological pathways relevant to regenerative and cellular biology research:
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Collagen & Elastin Synthesis: Stimulates fibroblasts to increase messenger RNA production for collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans . Type I and IV collagen production is enhanced .
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Angiogenesis & Wound Healing: Promotes new blood vessel formation by upregulating VEGF, FGF-2, and other angiogenic factors . Accelerates wound closure and tissue repair in research models .
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Cellular Signaling: Functions as a chemical attractant for inflammatory and endothelial cells during wound healing . Activates copper chaperones (CCS, Atox1) that translocate to the nucleus to act as transcription factors .
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Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-β, IL-6) through inhibition of NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways . Scavenges toxic lipid peroxidation products and reduces reactive oxygen species .
Key Research Applications:
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Skin regeneration and wound healing studies
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Collagen and elastin synthesis investigations
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Angiogenesis and vascular research
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Bone regeneration and osteogenic research
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Age-related cognitive decline studies
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide) |
| Synonyms | Copper Peptide, Copper Tripeptide-1, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu(II) |
| CAS Number | 89030-95-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | ~401.91 g/mol |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys-Cu |
| Appearance | Blue to off-blue lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC Verified) |
| Endotoxin Level | <0.25 EU/mg |
| Storage | -20°C (long-term), protected from light and moisture |
| Solubility | Soluble in aqueous solutions |
Quality Assurance
Every batch of GHK-Cu peptide undergoes rigorous analytical testing to ensure maximum purity and research integrity:
| Test | Method | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ESI-MS / HPLC | Matches theoretical mass |
| Purity | RP-HPLC | ≥99% area |
| Sequence Confirmation | MS/MS | 100% sequence coverage |
| Sterility | USP <71> | No growth |
| Endotoxin | LAL Test | <0.25 EU/mg |
Certificate of Analysis (COA) available upon request.
Research Background
Discovery & Historical Significance
GHK-Cu peptide was discovered by Loren Pickart in 1973, who observed that plasma from younger donors promoted superior tissue repair compared to older donors . Plasma concentrations of GHK average about 200 ng/mL at age 20 but decline to approximately 80 ng/mL by age 60, reflecting the body’s decreased regenerative capacity over time .
Key Research Findings
| Research Area | Findings |
|---|---|
| Skin Rejuvenation | Topical GHK-Cu peptide increased collagen deposition in 70% of participants vs. 50% with vitamin C and 40% with retinoic acid |
| Wound Healing | Liposome-encapsulated GHK-Cu shortened wound closure time and increased cell proliferation by ~33% in research models |
| Hair Growth | AHK-Cu (analogue) stimulated human hair-follicle elongation at extremely low concentrations (10⁻¹² to 10⁻⁹ M) |
| Cognitive Aging | Intranasal GHK-Cu improved escape learning in aged mouse models; distinct hippocampal gene expression programs identified |
| Bone Regeneration | GHK-Cu conjugates promoted expression of osteogenic factors (BMP-2) and angiogenic factors (VEGF) |
Neuroprotective Research
Recent research (2025) demonstrates that GHK-Cu peptide improves hippocampal-dependent learning in aged mice through distinct biological modes. Intranasal administration induced coordinated suppression of oxidative phosphorylation and MYC target pathways, while intraperitoneal treatment activated DNA repair and stress-response pathways .
Formulation & Delivery Considerations
For research applications, skin permeability is a key consideration. Studies show that GHK-Cu peptide combined with hyaluronic acid (HA) produces synergistic collagen expression, enhancing collagen IV production by up to 25-fold in cell models . Microneedle-mediated delivery has demonstrated significantly enhanced dermal penetration, transporting up to 705 nanomoles of copper across treated skin .
Storage & Reconstitution Guidelines
Storage Conditions:
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Lyophilized (Long-term): -20°C or -80°C, protected from light, dry, sealed
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Lyophilized (Short-term): 2°C – 8°C (refrigerated)
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Reconstituted: 4°C for up to 7 days; aliquot for extended storage; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Reconstitution Protocol:
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Allow vial to reach room temperature
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Add sterile bacteriostatic water or 0.9% sodium chloride solution
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Gently swirl (do not vortex) until fully dissolved
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Aliquot for extended storage to minimize freeze-thaw degradation
Note: Peptides are sensitive to formulation, process, and environmental conditions that may lead to aggregation and degradation.
Important Notice
⚠️ FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY
This product is not intended for human consumption, diagnostic use, therapeutic application, or clinical administration. GHK-Cu peptide is a research chemical intended exclusively for in-vitro and laboratory research purposes .
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Not approved by the FDA for human use
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Not a dietary supplement, food additive, or pharmaceutical for over-the-counter purchase
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Intended solely for qualified researchers and scientific institutions
By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a licensed researcher or laboratory professional and agree to use this compound in compliance with all applicable local, national, and international regulations.
Why Choose PeptidesUnit.com?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| ✅ Premium Purity | ≥99% HPLC-verified purity guaranteed |
| ✅ Research-Grade Quality | Manufactured under GMP-aligned conditions |
| ✅ Third-Party Tested | Independent COA for every batch |
| ✅ Secure Packaging | Lyophilized in amber glass vials with tamper-evident seals |
| ✅ Fast Global Shipping | Discreet packaging with real-time tracking |
| ✅ Competitive Pricing | Direct-from-manufacturer pricing |
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GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide) Peptide 5mg – ≥99% Purity
Available for immediate shipment ghk cu copper peptide




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