Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
Gly-His-Lys (GHK) complexed with copper (II) ion
Physical Properties
GHK-Cu is a copper (II) coordination complex of the tripeptide Gly-His-Lys. The histidine residue facilitates stable copper binding, forming a compact metal-peptide structure with distinct physicochemical properties compared to the free peptide. The metal complex enhances structural rigidity and influences solubility characteristics under laboratory conditions. Lyophilized storage and protection from moisture, light, and repeated freeze–thaw cycles help preserve structural integrity and maintain analytical consistency during research applications.
Analysis & Documentation
Identity
Each production lot is checked against the reference structure recorded for this compound:
- Classification — Copper-binding tripeptide complex
- Molecular formula — C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄Cu
- Expected mass — ~403.93 Da
- CAS registry — 89030-95-5
- Chain length — 3 amino acids (metal-bound complex)
- PubChem CID — Not available
Analytical Methods
Testing is carried out per lot by an independent laboratory. The methods measure what the material is and how much of it is the target compound:
- RP-HPLC — reverse-phase separation of the target from process-related impurities; purity is reported as area percent of the main peak
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass compared against the expected molecular mass above
- Retention time — compared against a reference standard run under the same conditions
- Chromatogram — reproduced on the certificate so the peak and any shoulders can be inspected directly
Material & Documentation
What arrives, and how to tie it back to its paperwork:
- Appearance as supplied — Blue to blue-violet lyophilized powder
- Solubility — Water, buffered aqueous solutions (e.g., PBS)
- Lot number — printed on the container label and used to look up the certificate
- Certificate — indexed by lot at Certificates of Analysis
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Reconstituted Solution Storage
- Short-term storage: Up to 7 days at 4°C
- Long-term storage: Store at –20°C in aliquots
- Use single-use aliquots to preserve peptide integrity
- Minimize freeze–thaw cycles; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended
Stability Characteristics
GHK-Cu is a synthetic peptide–copper complex research compound that demonstrates stable handling characteristics when managed under standard peptide laboratory protocols. Proper cold storage, protection from light exposure, careful reconstitution, and minimized freeze–thaw exposure help maintain structural integrity and solubility. When handled appropriately, GHK-Cu supports consistent use in in vitro and analytical research applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide complex originally identified in human plasma. In research environments, it is used to investigate copper-dependent cellular signaling and regenerative pathway mechanisms.
Is GHK-Cu different from GHK?
Yes. GHK refers to the tripeptide sequence alone, while GHK-Cu specifically refers to the copper-bound form. The copper complex is often the focus of research due to its biological activity in signaling pathways.
Is GHK-Cu naturally occurring?
Yes. GHK-Cu has been identified in human plasma and other tissues. Synthetic versions used in research are manufactured to replicate this naturally occurring complex.
How is GHK-Cu supplied?
GHK-Cu is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in sealed research vials to preserve stability during storage and transport.
How should unreconstituted GHK-Cu be stored?
Lyophilized GHK-Cu should be stored:
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Long-term: −20 °C to −80 °C
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Short-term: 2–8 °C
Keep vials sealed and protected from light and moisture, as copper complexes can be sensitive to environmental exposure.
How should reconstituted GHK-Cu be handled and stored?
Once reconstituted:
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Store at 2–8 °C for short-term laboratory use
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For extended storage, aliquot and freeze at −20 °C or below
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Minimize freeze–thaw cycles using single-use aliquots
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Protect from prolonged light exposure
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Gently swirl to mix; avoid vigorous agitation
Does GHK-Cu require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch, confirming peptide identity, copper content, purity, and analytical testing results to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved?
GHK-Cu sold as a research compound is not FDA-approved as a drug or therapeutic product. It must not be marketed or used for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumption purposes.
Research Background
GHK-Cu is one of the few compounds in this catalogue with randomised controlled trials in humans — though both were topical, and neither showed an objective benefit over its comparator. For the full referenced picture, including what the 179 indexed papers do and do not establish, see What Is GHK-Cu?. It cites peer-reviewed sources and contains no dosing guidance.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
