What is GHK-Cu? A Research Guide to the Copper Tripeptide
By Peptura Research Team/7 May 2026/7 min read
The Compound at a Glance
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper tripeptide, glycine, histidine, and lysine bound to a copper(II) ion. Loren Pickart first isolated it from human plasma in 1973, and it has since been found in saliva, urine, and a range of tissues. UK researchers can source GHK-Cu 100mg from Peptura at 99.95% HPLC-UV/MS purity with full third-party documentation.
Molecular Properties
GHK-Cu carries the molecular formula C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄ and a molecular weight of 403.9 g/mol. The copper(II) ion is not a passenger; it is integral to the activity, acting as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase and other metalloenzymes tied to collagen crosslinking and antioxidant defence. It ships as lyophilised powder with the blue tint that the copper complex lends it.
A Reach Across the Genome
Genomic studies indicate GHK-Cu influences the expression of more than 4,000 human genes, roughly 6% of the genome, spanning DNA repair, proteasome function, the oxidative-stress response, anti-inflammatory pathways, and tissue remodelling. That breadth is exactly why GHK-Cu draws such interest as a tool in gene-regulation and ageing research.
Research Applications
GHK-Cu features in dermatological models of collagen synthesis, extracellular-matrix remodelling, and skin-barrier function; in hair-follicle biology; in wound-healing models; and in genomic research on gene-expression modulation. Throughout, the copper ion acts as a cofactor for several metalloenzymes that underpin its activity in research settings.
Handling and Storage
Store lyophilised vials at -20°C somewhere dark. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water by running it slowly down the inner wall and swirling gently, never shake. Keep the blue-tinged reconstituted solution at 2-8°C in a light-protected container and use within four weeks. GHK-Cu is light-sensitive, so shield it from prolonged UV and fluorescent light throughout handling.
Sourcing GHK-Cu in the UK
Peptura supplies research-grade GHK-Cu 100mg at 99.95% HPLC-UV/MS purity, batch PEP-529, tested by Krause Analytical, with same-day UK dispatch on orders before 2pm GMT and free Royal Mail Tracked shipping over £45. For in-vitro laboratory research only, not for human consumption.
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Disclaimer: This article is for research and educational purposes only. All information provided is not intended as medical advice. Peptura products are not for human consumption and are sold strictly for laboratory research use only.