What GHK-Cu is
GHK is a tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) that occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva and urine, and that binds copper(II) ions with high affinity to form the GHK-Cu complex. The complex has been studied in skin biology, wound healing and gene-regulation research since the 1970s.
Molecular information
- Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (GHK) complexed with Cu(II)
- Number of residues in the peptide: 3
- Approximate monoisotopic mass: ~340 Da for GHK; ~403 Da for the copper-complexed form
- Physical form: Typically supplied as a blue-tinted lyophilised powder (colour derives from the copper complex)
Areas of published research
Published research has examined GHK-Cu in the context of dermal fibroblast biology, wound-repair models, collagen and elastin synthesis, and broader gene-expression profiling. The copper complex is characteristically blue in solution, offering an immediate visual quality check on reconstitution. Identity confirmation by LC-MS should account for the copper adduct; UV-Vis absorbance in the visible region can complement chromatography.
Analytical considerations
Standard research-peptide analytical checks apply: identity confirmation by mass spectrometry (see LC-MS peptide testing explained), purity assessment by reversed-phase HPLC at 214 nm (see what is HPLC peptide testing), and batch-specific documentation (see how to read a peptide COA). Refer to the Peptovia Research Certificate of Analysis page for live examples of the analytical format used for batches supplied.
Further reading
Peer-reviewed literature on GHK-Cu is accessible via PubMed and specialist journals. Readers are encouraged to evaluate primary sources directly rather than relying on secondary summaries.
Research Use Only. This profile is an educational overview of GHK-Cu as a research peptide. It does not describe or recommend human, veterinary or clinical use. Peptovia Research supplies GHK-Cu strictly for in-vitro laboratory research. No dosing, administration or therapeutic guidance is provided or implied.