What is GHK-Cu (copper peptide)?
Updated October 2026
GHK-Cu — the copper tripeptide — is one of the most-cited compounds in dermal and gene-expression research. Its distinctive blue color comes from the bound copper ion.
Structure
GHK is a tripeptide (glycine-histidine-lysine) that occurs naturally in human plasma and declines with age. It has a strong affinity for copper(II) ions; the copper complex, GHK-Cu, is the form studied in most research and is responsible for the characteristic blue tint of reconstituted solutions.
What's studied
Laboratory research has examined GHK-Cu in models of:
- Skin-matrix remodeling (collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblast culture)
- Broad gene-expression modulation observed in transcriptomic studies
- Wound-model and antioxidant pathways
Handling
Because of the bound copper, GHK-Cu solutions are colored and light-sensitive. Store lyophilized at -20°C, protect from light, and reconstitute per standard protocol.
Compliance
In-vitro research use only. COA with every lot.