GHK-Cu

Description

Copper-binding tripeptide for skin regeneration and anti-aging research.

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first isolated from human plasma by Pickart and Thaler in 1973. Its mechanism of action involves delivering bioavailable copper ions to tissues, where copper serves as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen crosslinking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and other metalloenzymes critical for tissue maintenance. GHK-Cu modulates gene expression of over 4,000 human genes, broadly shifting patterns toward tissue remodeling and repair (Pickart et al., BioMed Research International, 2012). Research demonstrates it upregulates collagen types I and III, elastin, decorin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while simultaneously downregulating metalloproteinase activity that degrades extracellular matrix. In wound healing studies, GHK-Cu accelerated dermal wound contraction and re-epithelialization in animal models (Leyden et al., Archives of Dermatological Research, 2002). The peptide also shows neuroprotective properties; studies suggest it reduces oxidative damage markers and may support nerve regeneration through NGF and VEGF upregulation. Compared to retinoids and vitamin C in skin research, GHK-Cu operates through a fundamentally different mechanism centered on copper-dependent enzymatic activity and broad transcriptomic remodeling rather than receptor activation or direct antioxidant scavenging. At 100mg, this formulation supports extended research protocols. Store lyophilized powder at -20C protected from light; reconstitute with sterile water and refrigerate at 2-8C. GHK-Cu is researched by dermatology departments, cosmetic science laboratories, and neuroscience institutions studying copper-dependent tissue repair and gene regulation.

This product is supplied as a lyophilized powder and is intended for laboratory and research use only. Not for human consumption. Each vial contains 100mg of research-grade material.

Research Applications

• Skin regeneration and anti-aging studies
• Wound healing and antimicrobial activity
• Nervous system support and neuroprotection
• Pain management research

Specifications

Size

100mg

Purity

≥98% (HPLC)

Form

Lyophilized Powder

Molecular Formula

C14H23CuN6O4

Molecular Weight

401.91 g/mol

CAS Number

89030-95-5

Storage & Handling

• Long-term storage: -20°C in a sealed, light-protected container
• Short-term storage: 2-8°C (refrigerated) for up to 30 days
• Reconstituted: Store at 2-8°C and use within 30 days
• Avoid: Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct sunlight, and moisture exposure
• Reconstitution: Use bacteriostatic water or sterile water for injection