GHK-Cu

Overview

GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring copper-bound tripeptide C14H22CuN6O4 originally identified in human plasma. It is a unique metal–peptide chelate where the tripeptide GHK forms a high-affinity complex with divalent copper ions. Notably, endogenous levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly with age, falling from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to roughly 80 ng/mL by age 60.

In biochemical research, GHK-Cu is studied as a powerful modulator of gene expression, with some models suggesting it influences over 4,000 genes to reset them toward a “younger” pattern. It is a primary tool for investigating extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, the acceleration of wound healing, and the stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis. Its ability to regulate copper transport and redox balance makes it essential for studies involving tissue regeneration, anti-inflammatory pathways, and hair follicle function.

Key Research Applications

GHK-Cu is widely utilized across dermatology, gerontology, and regenerative medicine models:

• Gene Expression Profiling: Investigating the “resetting” of gene expression patterns and the modulation of genes linked to cellular repair.
• Tissue Regeneration: Researching the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans within the extracellular matrix.
• Wound & Scar Research: Modeling the acceleration of dermal repair and the reduction of inflammatory markers in scar tissue.
• Copper Homeostasis: Studying peptide-bound copper transport, bioavailability, and metal-dependent enzymatic activity.
• Aging & Longevity Models: Analysis of age-related decline in GHK-Cu levels and its impact on systemic cellular health.
• Respiratory Studies: Experimental research into GHK-Cu’s influence on lung tissue and COPD models.

Additional Details

• Synonyms: Copper Tripeptide-1, Gly-His-Lys-Cu
• Solubility: Soluble in water and buffered aqueous solutions

Handling & Reconstitution

The stability of GHK-Cu is highly dependent on its coordination chemistry:

• Reconstitution: Use sterile water or an appropriate buffered aqueous solution.
• Avoid Chelators: Do not use buffers containing strong chelating agents (e.g., EDTA), as they will strip the copper ion from the peptide and destabilize the complex.
• Sensitivity: This compound is hygroscopic and sensitive to pH and light. Handle under dry conditions and protect from prolonged light exposure.
• Appearance: The resulting solution will be blue. Variations in blue intensity are normal and reflect the copper coordination state rather than impurity.

Important Safety Information

For Research Use Only. This product is a synthetic peptide–metal complex intended strictly for laboratory and in-vitro research. While GHK-Cu is frequently cited in cosmetic and clinical literature for skin aging and wound repair, it is not for human or veterinary use, nor is it intended for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. Researchers must use appropriate controls, as outcomes are highly concentration-dependent.

References

• Hong, Y., He, H., Jiang, C., et al. (2019). Copper peptide GHK-Cu stimulates proliferation and expression of growth factors in human hair dermal papilla cells. Molecules, 24(20), 3692. MDPI
• Pickart, L. (2008). The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 19(8), 969–988. Taylor&Francis
• Pickart, L., & Margolina, A. (2018). GHK-Cu may prevent oxidative stress in skin by regulating copper and antioxidant gene expression. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2018, Article ID 3235918. Hindawi
• Pickart, L. R., & Thaler, M. M. (1973). Tripeptide in human plasma that prolongs survival of normal liver cells and stimulates growth in neoplastic liver. Nature New Biology, 243(124), 85–87. Nature