Description
GHK-Cu, often called copper peptide, is one of the most studied compounds in skin and extracellular-matrix research. Each vial contains 50mg of lyophilized GHK-Cu for laboratory use.
What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK is a tripeptide made of glycine, histidine, and lysine that binds copper(II) with high affinity, forming the GHK-Cu complex. It was first identified in human plasma in the 1970s, and published measurements indicate plasma levels are lower in older individuals than in younger ones.
Laboratory work on GHK-Cu spans fibroblast cultures, wound models, and gene-expression analysis. Researchers have examined its relationship to collagen and elastin synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, antioxidant enzyme activity, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. It is also a common reference compound in cosmetic-science research on skin structure and hair follicles.
Areas of Research Interest
- Collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblast models
- Extracellular-matrix remodeling and wound models
- Gene-expression profiling studies
- Antioxidant and copper-transport pathways
- Hair-follicle and dermal papilla cell research
Product Specifications
- Compound: GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1)
- Contents: 50mg per vial
- Form: Lyophilized powder
- Intended use: Laboratory research only
Handling & Storage
Supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a sealed vial. Store according to the label, protected from heat, light and moisture.
GHK-Cu Research History
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) was first isolated from human plasma albumin by Loren Pickart in 1973. The tripeptide has a strong affinity for copper(II), and the GHK-Cu complex became a reference compound in extracellular-matrix research. An early cell-culture study (Maquart et al., FEBS Letters, 1988) examined GHK-Cu and collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures, and that work is still widely cited in the field.
Ordering GHK-Cu 50mg
A single GHK-Cu 50mg vial is $39.99, and every order ships within 24 hours. Two vials clear the $75 free-shipping threshold. Mixed orders of 3 or more vials receive 10% off, and 6 or more receive 15% off.
GHK-Cu is also one of the three compounds in the GLOW Blend 70mg, alongside BPC-157 and TB-500, for research designs that call for a pre-combined vial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is GHK supplied as a copper complex?
GHK binds copper(II) with high affinity, and the copper-bound form is the species most published research examines. Supplying it pre-complexed removes the variability of forming the complex in the lab.
What concentration is typical in cell culture research?
Published work spans a wide range depending on the model, and the appropriate concentration depends entirely on the protocol. The 50mg vial size allows a broad dilution series without opening multiple vials.
Why is it called copper peptide?
GHK has a strong affinity for copper ions. The copper-bound form, GHK-Cu, is the version most studied and the form supplied in this vial.
Is GHK-Cu included in any blends?
Yes. It is the base of both the GLOW Blend (with BPC-157 and TB-500) and the KLOW Blend (which adds KPV).
Is GHK-Cu 50mg Vial intended for human use?
No. This product is sold strictly for in vitro and laboratory research by qualified professionals. It is not for human or veterinary use.
What does GHK stand for?
GHK is the three-amino-acid sequence glycine, histidine, lysine (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). GHK-Cu is that tripeptide bound to a copper(II) ion.
Why is reconstituted GHK-Cu blue?
The blue color comes from the bound copper(II) ion. It is expected for GHK-Cu and is not a sign of contamination.
How should a GHK-Cu vial be stored?
Keep the lyophilized vial sealed, protected from light, and frozen at -20°C for long-term storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Where does Ageless Peptides ship GHK-Cu?
Orders ship within the United States within 24 hours. Shipping is $9.95, or free on orders over $75.
Related Research Compounds
Sold for research purposes only. Not intended for human consumption. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not a drug, food, or cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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