⚠ This article is intended for laboratory and scientific research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
What Is GHK-Cu? Research Overview of Copper Peptide GHK-Cu
Overview
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex first isolated from human plasma in the 1970s. It is formed by the chelation of the tripeptide GHK (Gly-His-Lys) with copper(II) ions. GHK-Cu has been identified in several human biological fluids and tissues including plasma, saliva, and urine, and its concentration is known to decline with age, which has made it a subject of interest in longevity and tissue repair research.
Chemical Identity
- Full name: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II) complex
- Molecular formula: C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄
- Molecular weight: ~403 Da
- CAS number: 89030-95-5
- Appearance: Blue to blue-green powder or solution (copper chelate)
The copper(II) coordination is a critical feature of the molecule — it is not simply the GHK peptide, but the copper-chelated complex, which is responsible for the biological activities characterized in the literature.
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu exerts its effects through several proposed mechanisms:
- Copper delivery: Acts as a carrier for copper ions, which are essential cofactors for lysyl oxidase (collagen/elastin crosslinking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and cytochrome c oxidase (mitochondrial respiration)
- Gene expression modulation: Microarray studies indicate GHK-Cu influences expression of genes associated with extracellular matrix remodeling, inflammation resolution, and tissue repair
- Antioxidant activity: The copper complex has been shown to quench free radicals and modulate the Nrf2 antioxidant response pathway in cell culture studies
- MMP modulation: Regulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity relevant to tissue remodeling processes
Preclinical Research Areas
The published preclinical literature on GHK-Cu spans several areas:
- Skin and wound healing: Stimulation of fibroblast proliferation, collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in cell culture; wound contraction and re-epithelialization in rodent models
- Hair follicle biology: Promotion of hair follicle size and hair growth in mouse models; commonly referenced in follicular research
- Nerve tissue: Nerve regeneration and branching studies in rodent peripheral nerve injury models
- Aging research: Age-related decline in plasma GHK levels has prompted investigation into its role as a signaling molecule in tissue maintenance
Research Specifications
- Purity: ≥98% by HPLC (research grade)
- Storage: −20°C protected from light; the copper complex is sensitive to oxidation under prolonged ambient exposure
- Solubility: Soluble in water, PBS; solution typically appears blue due to copper chelation
- COA should confirm identity by mass spectrometry and copper content
Important Disclaimer
GHK-Cu as supplied by Apex Molecular Labs is a research reagent only. All content is for scientific reference. Not for human or veterinary use, not a drug or supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GHK and GHK-Cu?
GHK is the free tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). GHK-Cu is the copper(II)-chelated form of that peptide. The copper coordination is integral to the biological activities described in the research literature — the two are not equivalent.
Why does GHK-Cu solution appear blue?
The characteristic blue color comes from the copper(II) chelation. Copper(II) complexes absorb light in the orange-red spectrum, resulting in blue coloration. This is a useful visual quality check for GHK-Cu solutions.
Does GHK-Cu concentration change with age?
Yes. Published data indicate plasma GHK concentration declines significantly with age — approximately from 200 ng/mL in young adults to undetectable levels in older populations. This age-related decline is a key rationale for longevity research interest in this peptide.
What copper content should research-grade GHK-Cu contain?
A properly formed GHK-Cu complex contains copper in a 1:1 molar ratio with the GHK tripeptide. COA documentation should include copper content verification, typically by ICP-MS or similar analytical method.
Research use only. All content on this page is for laboratory and scientific research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Apex Molecular Labs makes no representations regarding safety, efficacy, or suitability for any use beyond in vitro research.
