GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is a copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. It is supplied as a lyophilized research-grade powder for laboratory use only.

Research applications

GHK-Cu is used in cell and animal studies of fibroblast migration, extracellular matrix production, and angiogenic signaling. It also appears in work on oxidative stress, copper handling, and gene-expression responses.

Pathway and mechanistic context

The peptide binds copper(II) through its histidine ring and terminal amine groups. Studies describe links to integrin signaling, TGF-beta regulation, inflammatory cytokine levels, and antioxidant response elements.

Preclinical summary

In-vitro work has used fibroblast, keratinocyte, and neuronal cell models, and animal studies have used tissue-injury and inflammation models. The observations are laboratory findings, and they do not point to any use in people.

Form and analytical testing

Supplied as a lyophilized powder. Identity and purity are normally confirmed by HPLC and mass spectrometry. Refer to the Certificate of Analysis for the lot you receive.

References

1. L. Pickart, J. M. Vasquez-Soltero, and A. Margolina, “GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration,” BioMed Res. Int., vol. 2015, p. 648108, 2015. Source
2. A. Gruchlik, E. Chodurek, and Z. Dzierzewicz, “Effect of GLY-HIS-LYS and its copper complex on TGF-β secretion in normal human dermal fibroblasts,” Acta Pol. Pharm., vol. 71, no. 6, pp. 954–958, Dec. 2014. Source
3. L. Pickart and A. Margolina, “Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data,” Int. J. Mol. Sci., vol. 19, no. 7, Jul. 2018. Source
4. X. Wang et al., “GHK-Cu-liposomes accelerate scald wound healing in mice by promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis,” Wound Repair Regen., vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 270–278, 2017. Source
5. L. Pickart, J. M. Vasquez-Soltero, and A. Margolina, “The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression Relevant to Nervous System Function and Cognitive Decline,” Brain Sci., vol. 7, no. 2, Feb. 2017. Source
6. J.-R. Park, H. Lee, S.-I. Kim, and S.-R. Yang, “The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice,” Oncotarget, vol. 7, no. 36, pp. 58405–58417, Sep. 2016. Source

Peptides are shipped lyophilized (freeze-dried), a state that keeps them stable in transit. Keep vials cold and away from light on arrival.

• Short term: refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is generally suitable for lyophilized material held for days to months.
• Long term: a freezer at -80°C (-112°F) is preferred for storage over several months or years.
• After reconstitution: keep the vial refrigerated. Reconstituted material is generally kept for up to 30 days.