GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine-Copper(II))

Overview

GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the naturally occurring human tripeptide GHK (Gly-His-Lys), first isolated from human plasma in the 1970s. Plasma concentrations of GHK are known to decline with age, which has driven substantial preclinical interest in its role in tissue remodeling and dermal research. Peptide Factory supplies GHK-Cu as a lyophilized, copper-complexed powder for laboratory research.

Research Background

GHK’s affinity for Cu(II) is a defining structural feature of the molecule, and most research literature examines the peptide in its copper-bound form. Mechanistic studies have investigated GHK-Cu’s role in modulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) expression, as well as its influence on collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in dermal fibroblast cultures.

Studied Applications

Preclinical and in vitro research on GHK-Cu has examined:

• Extracellular matrix remodeling research — fibroblast culture studies have investigated GHK-Cu’s effect on collagen I/III synthesis and matrix metalloproteinase regulation.
• Antioxidant and gene-expression research — broader gene-expression profiling studies have examined GHK-Cu’s influence on genes associated with oxidative stress response and tissue repair pathways.
• Wound healing models — animal and in vitro wound models have studied GHK-Cu’s effect on angiogenesis and inflammatory cell recruitment during the healing process.

These are laboratory and preclinical findings; GHK-Cu is not approved for human therapeutic use and no dosing guidance is provided.

Storage & Handling

Store lyophilized GHK-Cu at -20°C, protected from light and moisture, as copper complexes can be sensitive to oxidative degradation. See our storage and handling guidance for reconstitution protocols.

References

• Pickart, L. & Margolina, A. “Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide.” Int. J. Mol. Sci. research literature.
• Maquart, F. X. et al. GHK-Cu and extracellular matrix gene expression research.
• Pickart, L. et al. Copper peptide research in dermal fibroblast models.

For Research Use Only — Not for Human Consumption.