What Is GHK-Cu? Copper Peptide Research Overview
GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring tripeptide complexed with copper (Cu2+). It is widely studied in laboratory research for its effects on skin, wound healing, and extracellular matrix signaling.
Chemical properties
- Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (complexed with Cu2+)
- Molecular formula: C14H24N6O4Cu
- Molecular weight: ~403.9 g/mol
- Appearance: Blue to blue-green lyophilized powder (copper complex)
What GHK-Cu is studied for
In laboratory research:
- Extracellular matrix — stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis
- Wound healing models — studied in cell culture and animal models
- Antioxidant activity — copper-dependent redox cycling
- Stem cell research — studied for effects on stem cell proliferation
How GHK-Cu is verified
- HPLC — purity >=99% by peak area
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass matching theoretical mass
- LAL endotoxin — below research-grade thresholds
FAQ
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1) is a tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) complexed with copper, studied in laboratory research for its effects on extracellular matrix synthesis and wound healing.
Why is GHK-Cu blue?
GHK-Cu appears blue because of the copper (Cu2+) ion complexed with the tripeptide.