GHK-Cu Research Guide
50mg · Research compound — not for human consumption
Research Overview
GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the naturally occurring tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (Gly-His-Lys), first isolated from human plasma in 1973. It has been studied in fibroblast, connective-tissue, and gene-expression laboratory models for copper-dependent effects on extracellular-matrix and repair-related pathways. It is presented here as a research compound not intended for human consumption.
Structural & Class Overview
Copper-binding tripeptide complex; glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (free peptide C14H24N6O4, PubChem CID 73587) coordinated 1:1 with copper(II), complex molecular weight approximately 403.9 g/mol. Mechanistically classed among matrix-modulating and copper-cofactor-delivery peptides; copper is a required cofactor for lysyl oxidase, which cross-links collagen and elastin.
General Research Interest
Research interest includes stimulation of collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblast models; matrix-metalloproteinase (e.g., MMP-2) regulation; copper-dependent extracellular-matrix remodeling; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signaling; and genome-wide gene-expression modulation reported across thousands of human genes in laboratory analyses. These are laboratory study areas, not established human benefits.
Storage Considerations
General research-handling notes for a lyophilized peptide complex: store the sealed lyophilized material cold, dry, and protected from light per supplier documentation; after reconstitution for laboratory use, refrigerate and minimize freeze-thaw cycles. Copper complexes are light-sensitive. Laboratory settings only. Not intended for human consumption.
Testing & Quality Considerations
Quality considerations include HPLC purity assessment, mass-spectrometry confirmation of peptide identity and molecular mass, verification of copper coordination/content, and review of a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA).
References
- Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine — PubChem CID 73587
- GHK and DNA: Resetting the Human Genome to Health, Pickart (2014)
- The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression (PMC)
References are provided for scientific context. Linked sources are independent and not affiliated with iNGEN MD.
