GHK-Cu
Copper tripeptide (GHK-Cu). Extracellular-matrix and protein-remodelling research.
Specification
- Catalogue ID: VL-007
- HPLC purity: 99.6%
- Formulation: Lyophilized
- Quantity: 50mg / Vial
- Price: £49.00
Extracellular matrix · copper signalling · gene expression
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide complex first identified in human plasma in 1973. The complex forms from the tripeptide GHK and a cupric (Cu²⁺) ion in a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio coordinated through the glycine amino group, the histidine imidazole nitrogen, and the lysine amino group.
In vitro, GHK-Cu has been examined in the context of extracellular matrix remodelling — specifically its apparent ability to modulate expression of metalloproteinase (MMP) and TIMP family genes, collagen synthesis pathways, and fibronectin production in fibroblast cell lines.
Transcriptome analyses published between 2010 and 2015 identified GHK-Cu as a compound capable of modulating the expression of over 4,000 human genes in cell-culture models, with enrichment in pathways related to antioxidant response (Nrf2), DNA repair, and anti-inflammatory signalling — areas of continuing interest in ageing-biology and dermatology research.
No physiological or therapeutic properties are claimed; supplied for in-vitro laboratory research use only.
Compound identity
- CAS number: 89030-95-5
- Molecular formula: C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄
- Molecular weight: 341.83 Da
- Sequence: GHK
- Solubility: Soluble in water at ≥1 mg/mL
- Reconstitution: Add 1 mL sterile or bacteriostatic water per 5 mg; dissolve with gentle swirling
- Stability once reconstituted: Reconstituted solution stable for up to 14 days at 4 °C; avoid repeated freeze–thaw
For in-vitro laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, consumption, or therapeutic application. No medical claims are made.