GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) Research Guide
Explore one of the most extensively researched peptides in regenerative science. GHK-Cu modulates thousands of genes involved in tissue remodeling, making it a cornerstone of skin and wound healing research.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide first identified in human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. With over 50 years of research and hundreds of published studies, GHK-Cu remains one of the most well-characterized peptides for tissue regeneration research.
This guide covers GHK-Cu's molecular profile, mechanisms of action, research applications, and practical considerations for laboratory use.
Molecular Profile
Basic Information
| Full Name | Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II) |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys |
| Molecular Weight | ~403.9 Da |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄ |
| CAS Number | 49557-75-7 |
Physical Properties
| Appearance | Blue/purple powder |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Storage | -20°C lyophilized |
| Stability | 2+ years at -20°C |
Important Note
The copper ion (Cu²⁺) is essential for GHK-Cu's biological activity. "GHK" alone (without copper) has different properties. Always verify you're using the copper-complexed form for research requiring full GHK-Cu activity.
Mechanisms of Action
GHK-Cu is remarkable for its broad biological activity. Gene expression studies have shown it modulates over 4,000 human genes—about 6% of the human genome. Key mechanisms include:
Gene Expression Modulation
Broad genomic effects affecting tissue repair, inflammation, and remodeling:
- • Upregulates: Collagen I, III, decorin, versican (ECM proteins)
- • Upregulates: VEGF, FGF (growth factors)
- • Downregulates: IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1 (inflammatory markers)
- • Modulates: DNA repair genes, antioxidant genes
Copper Delivery
GHK has extremely high affinity for copper (II) ions. It may serve as a copper delivery mechanism, transporting copper to cells where it's needed for enzyme function (superoxide dismutase, lysyl oxidase, cytochrome c oxidase).
Extracellular Matrix Remodeling
Stimulates synthesis of collagen and other ECM components while also promoting controlled breakdown of damaged proteins. This "remodeling" effect replaces damaged tissue with organized new tissue.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Reduces expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative damage markers. May help shift tissue from inflammatory to regenerative states.
Research Applications
GHK-Cu has been studied across numerous research domains due to its broad biological activity:
Skin Biology Research
- • Fibroblast proliferation studies
- • Collagen synthesis assays
- • Wound healing models
- • Skin aging research
Tissue Engineering
- • Scaffold enhancement
- • Cell migration studies
- • ECM production optimization
- • Biomaterial coating research
Hair Follicle Research
- • Follicle enlargement studies
- • Dermal papilla cell research
- • Hair cycle modulation
Inflammation Studies
- • Cytokine modulation assays
- • Oxidative stress research
- • Inflammatory marker analysis
Notable Research Citations
- • 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
- • Pickart L. "The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling." J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2008
- • Maquart FX, et al. "Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+." FEBS Lett. 1988
Handling & Research Protocols
Reconstitution Protocol
- 1. Preparation: Allow vial to reach room temperature (15-20 min)
- 2. Solvent: Use sterile water or bacteriostatic water
- 3. Reconstitution: Add solvent slowly down the vial wall, do not inject directly onto powder
- 4. Mixing: Gentle swirling only—GHK-Cu dissolves readily in water
- 5. Storage: Refrigerate at 2-8°C, use within 2-4 weeks
Common Research Concentrations
- • Cell culture: 1-10 µM
- • Topical formulations: 0.1-1%
- • Injection studies: Varies by model
Stability Considerations
- • Light sensitive—store in dark
- • pH stable 4.0-7.0
- • Avoid EDTA (chelates copper)
Research Combinations
GHK-Cu is sometimes combined with other peptides in research protocols:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GHK-Cu?
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. One of the most extensively researched peptides for tissue and skin research.
Why is copper important for GHK-Cu?
The copper ion is essential for biological activity. It enables GHK-Cu's gene modulation effects and may serve as a copper delivery mechanism to cells.
How many genes does GHK-Cu affect?
Gene array studies show GHK-Cu modulates over 4,000 human genes—approximately 6% of the genome—affecting tissue repair, inflammation, and remodeling.
How should GHK-Cu be stored?
Lyophilized: -20°C for long-term. Reconstituted: 2-8°C refrigerated, use within 2-4 weeks. Protect from light.
What makes GHK-Cu blue?
The copper ion gives GHK-Cu its characteristic blue/purple color. This is normal and indicates proper copper complexation.
Shop GHK-Cu
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