Product Details
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) — Research Grade Peptide, ≥98% Purity (HPLC)
Copper-binding tripeptide. Collagen synthesis research tool. Lyophilized powder. Lot-specific COA included.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex), also known as Copper Tripeptide-1, is a naturally occurring tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in the 1970s. It is a degradation product of the α2(I) chain of type I collagen, which suggests it may be liberated by proteases at wound sites to exert local healing effects. The tripeptide forms a stable complex with copper(II) ions, and this copper coordination is essential for its biological activity.
The peptide’s research profile centers on extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. GHK-Cu upregulates collagen I and III, elastin, decorin, and glycosaminoglycans, modulates the MMP/TIMP balance, and supports angiogenesis. In gene-expression studies, it appears to shift cells toward a regenerative profile. Recent work in C. elegans has provided the first mechanistic evidence that GHK-Cu delays aging through coordinated regulation of mitochondrial function and activation of the DAF-16 and SKN-1 pathways.
Supplied as a sterile-filtered, lyophilized powder for in vitro and preclinical research applications. Each lot is independently verified for purity and identity and ships with a Certificate of Analysis.
Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 89030-95-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 401.91 g/mol |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (GHK) complexed with Cu²⁺ |
| Purity | ≥98% (HPLC) |
| Identity | Confirmed by mass spectrometry |
| Appearance | Blue-tinged crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and aqueous buffers |
| Storage | −20 °C, desiccated, protected from light |
| Format | Lyophilized powder, sterile-filtered |
| Documentation | Lot-specific COA (HPLC + MS) |
Note: GHK-Cu is supplied in both free base and acetate salt forms. The acetate form has a molecular weight of 461.96 g/mol and CAS number 300801-03-0. The characteristic blue color of the powder is due to the copper coordination. Verify the exact form and molecular weight against the Certificate of Analysis supplied with your lot.
Research applications
GHK-Cu is used in laboratory settings to investigate:
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Collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis — stimulation of collagen I and III, elastin, decorin, and glycosaminoglycan production in human dermal fibroblast cultures
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Anti-inflammatory signaling — inhibition of neutrophil and macrophage migration, suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and upregulation of anti-inflammatory IL-10 in zebrafish inflammation models
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Antioxidant defense — reduction of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in LPS-induced inflammation models
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Mitochondrial function and aging research — preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential, attenuation of age-related mitochondrial network fragmentation, and lifespan extension in C. elegans via DAF-16/SKN-1 pathway activation
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Wound healing and re-epithelialization — accelerated wound closure in a Phase 2 topical gel study (CuHeal) using standardized punch-biopsy wounds in healthy adults
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Soft tissue filler and regenerative research — GHK-Cu loaded onto hydroxyapatite microspheres for sustained release, reduced inflammation, and enhanced collagen deposition in LPS-induced inflammation models
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Analytical method development — CE-ICP-MS/MS quantification and stability assessment of GHK-Cu in complex cosmetic matrices
Handling and storage
Reconstitute under aseptic conditions using sterile water or an appropriate aqueous buffer. GHK-Cu is soluble in water. Aliquot immediately after reconstitution to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Lyophilized powder is stable for up to 2 years at −20 °C under sealed, desiccated, light-protected conditions. Reconstituted solutions should be stored at 2–8 °C and used within 14–21 days. Do not freeze reconstituted solution.
For laboratory use by qualified personnel only.





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Fast shipping and excellent peptide quality. Packaging was discreet and professional.
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Batch-specific COA included and product quality was top-notch. Highly recommend.
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