GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK), a small, naturally occurring peptide-copper chelate found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, whose concentration declines with age. The peptide has a well-characterized affinity for copper ions, and the GHK-Cu complex is one of the most extensively published copper-binding peptides in dermatology and tissue-biology research, with literature dating to the 1970s.
In research, GHK-Cu is studied for its interaction with gene-expression programs, extracellular-matrix and collagen-synthesis pathways, and antioxidant signaling in tissue and cell models. It is supplied as a lyophilized powder and is water-soluble on reconstitution.
Verified dataVerified compound data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Compound name | GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1; glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) |
| CAS number (Cu complex) | 89030-95-5 |
| CAS number (free GHK tripeptide) | 49557-75-7 |
| PubChem CID (free GHK tripeptide) | 342538 |
| Molecular formula (Cu complex) | C14H22CuN6O4 |
| Molecular formula (free GHK tripeptide) | C14H24N6O4 |
| Molecular weight (free GHK tripeptide) | 340.38 g/mol |
| Amino acid sequence | Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (Gly-His-Lys / GHK) |
| Length | 3 residues (tripeptide) + Cu²⁺ |
| Physical form | Lyophilized powder |
Note: “GHK-Cu” refers to the copper-bound complex (CAS 89030-95-5, C14H22CuN6O4). The free tripeptide GHK is CAS 49557-75-7, C14H24N6O4, MW 340.38 (PubChem CID 342538). Reported molecular weights for the complex vary by published source depending on stoichiometry/hydration; the free-tripeptide MW of 340.38 g/mol is the unambiguous PubChem value. Data verified against PubChem and Wikipedia.
MechanismResearch-context mechanism
In preclinical literature, GHK-Cu is associated with copper-ion binding and transport, and research suggests an involvement in the modulation of gene-expression programs related to extracellular-matrix turnover. Studies have examined the complex in collagen- and glycosaminoglycan-synthesis pathway models, and in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signaling models. These mechanisms are described strictly in in vitro and in vivo research contexts and are not established human-use mechanisms.
Research summaryCurrent research summary
GHK-Cu appears across a deep preclinical literature in:
- Collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis pathway studies
- Gene-expression modulation (tissue-remodeling marker programs)
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signaling models
- Skin-tissue and wound-biology research models
The compound is frequently used as a reference copper peptide in dermatology research. It is not an FDA-approved drug; any age-related or cosmetic framing in the literature remains within a research-model context.
QuestionsFrequently Asked Questions
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is the copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a naturally occurring peptide-copper chelate studied in preclinical skin-biology, gene-expression, and extracellular-matrix research models. It is a research compound, not for human use.
What is the molecular formula of GHK-Cu?
The copper complex GHK-Cu has the molecular formula C14H22CuN6O4. The free tripeptide GHK is C14H24N6O4 with a molecular weight of 340.38 g/mol (PubChem CID 342538).
What is the CAS number for GHK-Cu?
The copper complex GHK-Cu has CAS number 89030-95-5. The free GHK tripeptide is CAS 49557-75-7.
What is the sequence of GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is built on the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (Gly-His-Lys, single-letter GHK), complexed with a copper(II) ion.
Why does GHK-Cu need protection from air in a research setting?
Copper peptides are sensitive to oxidation. After reconstitution, GHK-Cu should be protected from prolonged air exposure to preserve the integrity of the copper complex.
Is GHK-Cu approved for human use?
No. GHK-Cu is not an FDA-approved drug and is not intended for human consumption. It is offered strictly as a research compound for laboratory use.
For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not approved by the FDA. 21+
- HPLC + MS tested, every batch
- U.S. synthesized
- Batch COA on the product page
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