GHK-Cu 50mg
GHK-Cu 50mg — for in vitro laboratory research use only.
Product Overview
GHK-Cu is a pharmaceutical-grade research compound supplied as a lyophilized powder. Each batch undergoes independent third-party testing with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) available on request.
Specifications
| CAS Number | 89030-95-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C14H24N6O4 coordinated with one Cu(II) ion |
| Molar Weight | ~403.93 g/mol (copper complex); free GHK peptide ~340.38 g/mol |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (GHK), copper(II)-chelated |
| Classification | Copper-binding tripeptide complex |
| Appearance | Blue to blue-green lyophilised powder, characteristic of its bound copper content |
| Solubility | Soluble in sterile water or bacteriostatic water |
| Storage | Store lyophilised powder desiccated and protected from light at -20°C. Once reconstituted, store at 2-8°C for short-term use and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
| Shelf Life | Typically stable for up to 24 months when stored lyophilised, desiccated, and protected from light at -20°C — confirm against the specific batch's Certificate of Analysis. |
Description & Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, chelated to a Cu(II) ion), present in human plasma, saliva, and skin, with circulating levels reported to decline with age. At sites of tissue injury or cellular aging, GHK-Cu is taken up by fibroblasts and related repair cells, where it activates TGF-β signalling and delivers copper as a cofactor for enzymes including lysyl oxidase (involved in collagen crosslinking) and superoxide dismutase (involved in antioxidant defence). Gene-expression studies have associated GHK-Cu with upregulation of collagen I/III, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis genes, alongside a dual regulatory effect on matrix metalloproteinases — inhibiting MMP-1 and MMP-2 while stimulating MMP-9 — consistent with balanced extracellular matrix remodelling rather than excess breakdown or fibrosis. GHK-Cu is already used in some approved topical cosmetic formulations; the pathway summarised here reflects preclinical and in-vitro research findings rather than guaranteed outcomes.
Applications in Research
- Studying TGF-β-mediated collagen and elastin gene expression
- Investigating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) regulation and tissue remodelling
- Wound-healing and dermal fibroblast research models
- Copper-dependent enzyme cofactor studies (e.g. lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase)
Handling, Reconstitution & Stability
- Handle as a hygroscopic powder; open vials and weigh under dry conditions where possible
- Reconstitute with sterile water or bacteriostatic water, adding solvent slowly down the side of the vial
- A blue or blue-green tint in solution is expected and reflects the peptide's bound copper content
- Filter-sterilise (e.g. 0.22 µm) immediately before use if required by your protocol
- Aliquot reconstituted solution and store at -20°C or below; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Precautions & Notes
- GHK-Cu occurs naturally in the human body and is used in some topical cosmetic formulations; research findings should not be read as claims about any specific product
- Experimental effects are concentration-, duration-, and model-dependent
- Include appropriate experimental controls to distinguish specific from non-specific effects
- For laboratory research use only — not for human or veterinary use
This product is supplied for in vitro research purposes only. It is not intended for human or animal administration, diagnostic use, or any other purpose. Handle in accordance with good laboratory practice guidelines.