Overview
GHK-Cu is the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK) complexed with a copper(II) ion. The GHK sequence occurs naturally in human plasma, where its concentration is reported to decline with age, and it binds copper(II) with high affinity through coordination involving its N-terminal amine and histidine imidazole. The complex is water-soluble and is produced synthetically for research use. It is frequently studied as a reference compound for copper delivery and extracellular-matrix biology in fibroblast systems.
Mechanism as studied
The research literature characterizes GHK-Cu as a copper-transporting ligand that influences the expression of a broad set of genes. In fibroblast culture, exposure is associated with upregulation of collagen, elastin, and proteoglycan transcripts, alongside modulation of antioxidant-enzyme genes. The complex is also described as modulating the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs), a determinant of extracellular-matrix remodeling. Copper coordination is regarded as central to these transcriptional and enzymatic endpoints.
Research context
Contexts in which this compound appears in the in-vitro and preclinical research literature:
- Fibroblast culture: collagen, elastin, and proteoglycan gene- and protein-expression endpoints.
- Extracellular-matrix remodeling assays examining MMP/TIMP balance.
- Antioxidant and metal-transport studies characterizing copper coordination.
- Skin- and wound-model cell systems examining matrix and keratinocyte responses.
- Gene-expression profiling describing broad transcriptional modulation in cultured cells.
Handling & storage
Supplied as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in the laboratory, typically in bacteriostatic water to the working concentration required by the assay (diluent volume set by the target mg/mL). Add diluent slowly down the vial wall and swirl gently to dissolve; do not vortex. Protect the copper complex from strong light and prepare in a clean field, aliquoting to minimize freeze–thaw cycles.
Store the sealed lyophilized vial at −20 °C protected from light, where it is stable long-term. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated at 2–8 °C, protect from light, and avoid repeated freeze–thaw.
Certificates of analysis
Independent and in-house certificates published for this compound. Each reports identity and HPLC purity for the tested lot.
Order GHK-Cu
Lot-traceable, certificate-backed, and shipped cold-chain from the US.
For research use only
This guide is reference material for qualified researchers. The compound is an analytical-grade reference material supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and development — not a drug, supplement, or medical device, and not for human or animal consumption or any therapeutic, clinical, or diagnostic use. No medical claims are made or implied.
