GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied in laboratory settings for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and ECM remodeling
About GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu (CAS 49557-75-7) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex composed of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to a copper(II) ion. It has been studied in preclinical and cosmetic research models for its interactions with collagen synthesis, wound healing, and extracellular matrix remodeling pathways.
GHK was first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart at the University of California, San Francisco, while studying differences between young and old human serum's effect on liver tissue regeneration. He noticed that a small peptide present at higher concentrations in young serum could restore aged liver tissue's ability to regenerate, and he traced the activity to a tripeptide—glycyl-histidyl-lysine.
Pickart later determined that GHK has a strong affinity for copper(II) ions, forming the GHK-Cu complex that is the biologically active form found in plasma. Across the following decades, GHK-Cu became one of the most extensively studied tripeptides in regenerative biology and dermatological research, with documented interactions across collagen synthesis, antioxidant gene expression, and matrix metalloproteinase regulation in preclinical models.
Modern research has examined GHK-Cu's effects in cell culture models of fibroblast proliferation, hair follicle activation, and skin barrier function. A 2010 genome-wide expression analysis by Pickart and colleagues identified more than 4,000 human genes whose expression was modulated by GHK-Cu in cultured cells, with effects particularly concentrated in genes involved in tissue remodeling and DNA repair.
Quick Facts
| CAS Number | 49557-75-7 |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄·Cu |
| Molar Mass | 402.92 g/mol |
| Sequence | 3 amino acids (tripeptide-copper complex) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | 99%+ (HPLC verified) |
| Third-Party Testing | Freedom Diagnostics (COA included) |
| Storage | Room temp 3–4 months; refrigerate post-reconstitution |
| Price (from) | $70.00 USD |
| SKU | PF-GHKCU-100MG |
How GHK-Cu Works
Preclinical studies have examined GHK-Cu's mechanisms involving copper delivery to enzymes requiring it as a cofactor, modulation of extracellular matrix proteins, regulation of antioxidant defense gene expression, and effects on fibroblast and hair follicle cell behavior in laboratory models.
Copper Delivery & Lysyl Oxidase Activation
GHK-Cu has been studied as a copper delivery vehicle to cells, providing the Cu²⁺ cofactor required by lysyl oxidase. This enzyme catalyzes the cross-linking of collagen and elastin fibers, contributing to extracellular matrix tensile strength. Preclinical studies have documented increased collagen cross-linking in fibroblast cultures treated with GHK-Cu.
Collagen and ECM Synthesis
Research has shown that GHK-Cu modulates expression of genes encoding collagen types I and III, decorin, and other extracellular matrix components in fibroblast cell models. These effects have been studied in the context of wound healing and dermal regeneration in preclinical research.
Matrix Metalloproteinase Regulation
GHK-Cu has been observed to balance MMP activity with their natural inhibitors (TIMPs) in fibroblast and keratinocyte cultures. This balance is implicated in remodeling damaged extracellular matrix while preserving healthy structural proteins, a process studied in skin regeneration research.
Antioxidant Gene Expression
Genome-wide expression studies have shown that GHK-Cu upregulates expression of multiple antioxidant defense genes, including those encoding glutathione synthesis enzymes and superoxide dismutase. These effects have been examined for their role in cellular protection against oxidative stress in preclinical models.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is GHK-Cu?
- GHK-Cu (CAS 49557-75-7) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex composed of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to a copper(II) ion. It has been studied in preclinical and cosmetic research models for its interactions with collagen synthesis, wound healing, and extracellular matrix remodeling pathways.
- What is the CAS number for GHK-Cu?
- The CAS number for GHK-Cu is 49557-75-7.
- What purity is Peptide Foundry's GHK-Cu?
- Peptide Foundry's research peptides are manufactured to 99%+ purity. Every batch is verified by an independent third-party laboratory (Freedom Diagnostics) using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for purity and identity, Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay for bacterial endotoxin, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for heavy-metal contamination. A Certificate of Analysis is published for every product and batch.
- How should GHK-Cu be stored?
- Lyophilized GHK-Cu is stable at room temperature for 3-4 months in its original sealed container. Because GHK-Cu is a copper-bound peptide, it is light-sensitive — store away from UV and visible light, ideally in the supplied amber or light-resistant packaging. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, refrigerate (2-8°C) in a light-protected container and use within 30 days.
- Does GHK-Cu ship with a Certificate of Analysis?
- Yes. Every batch of every product ships with a Certificate of Analysis from Freedom Diagnostics, an independent third-party analytical laboratory. The COA documents HPLC purity, peptide identity, endotoxin testing, and heavy-metals screening.
- Is GHK-Cu sold for human use?
- No. All products sold by Peptide Foundry are strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use only (RUO). They are not intended for human or animal consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic application.
Scientific References
- Pickart L. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2008;19(8):969-988. PubMed: 18644225
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:648108. PubMed: 26236730
- 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;19(7):1987. PubMed: 29986520
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012;2012:324832. PubMed: 22666519
This product is sold strictly for in-vitro research use only (RUO). It is not intended for human or animal consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic application.