Description
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper(II)) 50mg Lyophilized Powder
Key Points:
- Research suggests that GHK-Cu acts as a robust epigenetic modulator, capable of influencing the expression of over 4,000 human genes associated with cellular repair and aging.
- The evidence leans toward its primary physiological mechanism being the targeted delivery of copper ions, which facilitates tissue remodeling and upregulates antioxidant pathways.
- This product is strictly for Research Use Only (RUO). It is an investigational chemical not intended for human consumption, diagnostic, or veterinary use.
Overview
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring, copper-binding tripeptide complex originally isolated from human plasma. Research indicates that endogenous levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly with age—dropping from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60—a reduction that likely correlates with diminished regenerative capacity in mammalian tissues. In controlled laboratory and in vitro settings, synthetic GHK-Cu is widely utilized by researchers to investigate extracellular matrix dynamics, inflammatory modulation, and cellular aging processes.
Product Specifications
This research-grade compound is synthesized to rigorous standards to ensure consistency in in vitro and animal model applications. The tripeptide possesses a high binding affinity for Cu2+, forming a stable organometallic complex.
| Peptide Sequence | Gly-His-Lys + Cu2+ |
| Molecular Weight | ~403.9 Da (Copper Complex) / 340.38 Da (Base Peptide) |
| Molecular Formula | C14H24CuN6O4 |
| CAS Number | 49557-75-7 |
| Form | Lyophilized Blue Powder |
| Purity | ≥99.0% (Validated by RP-HPLC) |
Mechanism of Action
The biological efficacy of GHK-Cu is driven by a multi-pathway mechanism of action that intersects structural tissue remodeling and cellular defense systems:
- Copper Ion Delivery: GHK functions as a carrier peptide, facilitating the transport and uptake of copper—an essential trace element—into cells. This targeted delivery supports copper-dependent enzymatic activities and localized angiogenesis.
- MMP Regulation: GHK-Cu modulates the extracellular matrix by directly stimulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (such as MMP-2) while simultaneously upregulating their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2). This dual action supports controlled matrix turnover and prevents excessive proteolysis.
- TGF-β Modulation: The peptide complex has been shown to modulate the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway. It appears likely that this regulation helps restore normal fibroblast contraction and function, mitigating pathological scar formation.
- Antioxidant Enzyme Upregulation: GHK-Cu protects cells from oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation by upregulating the production of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, most notably superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase.
Research Applications
Given its pleiotropic effects, GHK-Cu is heavily featured in preclinical literature across several domains of regenerative medicine:
- Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Remodeling: Researchers utilize GHK-Cu in fibroblast cultures to quantify the stimulated synthesis of key ECM components, including Type I and Type III collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (e.g., dermatan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate).
- Wound Healing Models: In experimental animal models (including ischemic and diabetic wound chambers), GHK-Cu has demonstrated the ability to accelerate wound contraction, promote re-epithelialization, and increase blood vessel formation.
- Anti-Fibrotic Studies: Recent investigations highlight GHK-Cu’s potential as an anti-fibrotic agent. Studies involving idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) models suggest that the peptide can reverse cellular senescence and induce apoptosis in overactive myofibroblasts, thereby halting persistent collagen deposition.
- Gene Expression Modulation: Microarray analyses have revealed that GHK-Cu functions as a broad epigenetic switch. It is reported to significantly upregulate or downregulate over 4,000 human genes, essentially reverting diseased or aged transcriptomic profiles toward a healthier state.
Preparation, Storage, and Reconstitution
To maintain structural integrity and peptide stability, strict adherence to handling protocols is required:
- Storage (Lyophilized): Vials should be stored at -20°C upon receipt, protected from direct light and moisture.
- Reconstitution: The lyophilized powder is highly soluble in aqueous environments. It is recommended to reconstitute using bacteriostatic water or sterile double-distilled water. Aseptic techniques must be maintained throughout the procedure.
- Storage (Reconstituted): Once in solution, the peptide should be refrigerated at 2–8°C and utilized within 14 to 30 days to prevent degradation. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles must be avoided.
Warning and RUO Disclaimer
WARNING: GHK-Cu 100mg is supplied exclusively as a research chemical. It is strictly designated for in vitro laboratory research and pre-clinical in vivo models conducted by qualified professionals. It is not a drug, food, or cosmetic, and must not be administered to humans or animals under any circumstances. Purchasers assume full liability for the proper handling, application, and disposal of this compound.
Selected PubMed Citations
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987. PMID: 29986520.
- Siméon A, Emonard H, Hornebeck W, Maquart FX. The tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ stimulates matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression by fibroblast cultures. Life Sci. 2000;67(18):2257-2265. PMID: 11045606.
- Zhang Q, et al. The naturally occurring peptide GHK reverses age-related fibrosis by modulating myofibroblast function. Aging Pathobiol Ther. 2024;6(4):186-190. PMID: 40823151.
- Maquart FX, et al. In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rat experimental wounds. J Clin Invest. 1993;92(5):2368-2376. PMCID: PMC116842.
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