What Is GHK-Cu?
A copper-binding tripeptide studied extensively in dermal and connective-tissue research literature. Structure, identifiers, handling, and what the published work measures.
Identity
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide — glycine, histidine, lysine — complexed with a copper(II) ion. The free GHK sequence occurs naturally in human plasma, and its high affinity for copper is the property most of the literature is built around.
| CAS number | 49557-75-7 |
|---|---|
| Molecular formula | C14H24N6O4Cu |
| Molecular weight | 403.9 g/mol |
| Sequence | Gly-L-His-L-Lys |
| Single-letter | GHK |
| Metal centre | Copper(II) |
| Physical form | Lyophilized powder |
| Regulatory status | Not approved by the FDA for any use |
The CAS number is the reliable identifier. House codes and trade names vary between suppliers and sometimes collide outright, so when comparing material from different sources, compare the CAS number and molecular formula rather than the product name.
What the literature examines
Published work on this compound is preclinical — animal models and in-vitro systems. It is not an approved drug, and nothing below is a statement about what it does in a person.
- Collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblast culture
- Copper binding affinity and transport between carrier molecules
- Gene expression profiling in cultured human fibroblasts
- Metalloproteinase and antiprotease expression in tissue-culture models
We do not provide dosing, reconstitution, administration or protocol guidance for this or any compound, and we will not answer questions about using a product on a person or an animal. See our Research Use Only Policy.
Purity and verification
The practical questions for a researcher are whether the material is what it claims to be, and what fraction of the vial is that substance rather than related impurities, residual solvent or counterion salt.
Two measurements answer that. HPLC separates the sample and reports purity as a percentage of total peak area. Mass spectrometry confirms identity by measuring molecular weight against the expected 403.9 g/mol. A certificate of analysis reports both for a specific lot.
A certificate confirms what is in the vial. It is not evidence that the material is safe or suitable for any use outside a laboratory.
Handling and storage
- Supplied lyophilized and shelf-stable at ambient temperature for shipping; no cold-chain handling is required in transit.
- For longer-term storage keep the sealed vial cold, dry and out of direct light.
- Handle in a laboratory setting with appropriate protective equipment.
- Dispose of material according to your institution's procedures and local regulations.
General stability figures are on our Storage & Handling page.
GHK-Cu — 50mg
Lyophilized, ≥99% purity, Certificate of Analysis available on request.