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GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu (copper peptide) is a naturally occurring tripeptide with a strong affinity for copper(II) ions. First identified in human plasma by Dr. Loren Pickart in 1973, GHK-Cu concentration declines with age. It has become one of the most studied peptides in dermatological and aging research, with applications spanning skin biology, wound healing, and gene expression modulation.

Research Overview

GHK-Cu has accumulated a substantial body of published research over five decades. Studies have examined its effects on collagen synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, and gene expression in various cell culture and animal models. Research published in journals including the Journal of Biological Chemistry and Wound Repair and Regeneration has documented its interactions with multiple biological pathways. A landmark gene expression study by Pickart and colleagues identified over 4,000 genes modulated by GHK-Cu in human cell lines, including genes associated with DNA repair, antioxidant defense, and stem cell markers. The peptide's copper-binding properties are central to its biological activity, as copper is a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in tissue remodeling.

Key Research Findings

  • 1

    Stimulated collagen types I and III synthesis in human fibroblast cultures (Maquart et al., 1988)

  • 2

    Modulated expression of over 4,000 human genes in cell culture gene array studies

  • 3

    Promoted decorin synthesis, a proteoglycan involved in collagen organization, in vitro

  • 4

    Demonstrated attraction of immune cells to wound sites in animal models

  • 5

    Showed antioxidant properties by upregulating superoxide dismutase in cell studies

  • 6

    Naturally occurring in human plasma at approximately 200 ng/mL in young adults, declining with age

Where to Buy GHK-Cu

Our top-ranked vendors for sourcing research-grade GHK-Cu. All vendors below publish third-party COAs and have been independently evaluated.

RankVendorPurityScore
#1Ascension Peptides9.8/109.3Review →
#2Swiss Chems9.2/108.9Review →
#3Limitless Biotech9.4/108.7Review →
#4Core Peptides9/108.6Review →
#5Sports Technology Labs9.3/108.6Review →

Molecular Details

Sequence
Gly-His-Lys (copper complex)
Molecular Weight
403.9 g/mol
Molecular Formula
C14H24CuN6O4

Storage & Handling

Storage
Store lyophilized at -20C protected from light. Reconstituted solutions at 4C.
Solubility
Soluble in water. The copper complex gives solutions a characteristic blue color.

Research Disclaimer: All information on this page is provided for educational and research purposes only. Products discussed are intended for laboratory research use exclusively. They are not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as dietary supplements. Always follow institutional guidelines and consult published peer-reviewed literature for research protocol development. Not for human consumption.