Research Library · Compound Guide
GHK-Cu: Research Overview of the Copper-Binding Tripeptide
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for over fifty years in the research literature. This overview summarizes its verified molecular data and the chemistry researchers reference, strictly within a laboratory context.
For Research Use Only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, food, or cosmetic. This page is educational reference material for qualified researchers and contains no medical advice, dosing, or health claims.
Molecular Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (chelated with Cu2+) |
| CAS number | 49557-75-7 |
| Molecular formula (copper complex) | C14H24CuN6O4 |
| Molecular weight (complex) | ~403.9 g/mol |
| Free tripeptide (GHK) formula / MW | C14H24N6O4 / ~340.4 g/mol |
| Classification | Copper-binding signal tripeptide |
Figures compiled from public chemical databases; verify each against the batch-specific COA at aurexbiolabs.com/verify.
Chemistry and Occurrence
GHK-Cu is the glycyl-histidyl-lysine tripeptide chelated to a copper(II) ion. It occurs naturally in human plasma, with reported concentrations declining with age in the published literature. In research it has been investigated as a signal peptide in studies of collagen synthesis, fibroblast activity, and gene modulation. Correctly synthesized GHK-Cu is characteristically blue, a direct consequence of the coordinated copper. The analytical identity of the complex is confirmed by mass spectrometry against its expected mass, with purity quantified by HPLC; see HPLC vs mass spectrometry in peptide testing and how to read a certificate of analysis.
Laboratory Handling
Store lyophilized GHK-Cu at -20C, protected from light and moisture in its original sealed container. For reconstitution in a research setting, bacteriostatic water is commonly cited; reconstituted solution is kept refrigerated at 2-8C and protected from light, with aliquoting before freezing to minimize freeze-thaw cycles. General practice is covered in our peptide reconstitution guide. Documentation for the material in hand is available on the GHK-Cu product listing.
AurexBioLabs GHK-Cu is a research-grade compound and is not an approved pharmaceutical or cosmetic product.
Frequently Asked Questions
A copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys chelated to Cu2+), CAS 49557-75-7, studied in research contexts.
The copper complex is approximately 403.9 g/mol; the free GHK tripeptide is approximately 340.4 g/mol.
The chelated copper(II) ion gives correctly synthesized material its characteristic blue color.
At -20C, protected from light and moisture, in a sealed container.
No; it is a research-grade compound for laboratory use only.
Via the third-party HPLC and mass-spec COA at aurexbiolabs.com/verify.
Next Steps
Verification & catalog
For Research Use Only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, food, or cosmetic. This page is educational reference material for qualified researchers and contains no medical advice, dosing, or health claims.
For Research Use Only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, cosmetic, or dietary supplement. All information is provided for laboratory research purposes only.