What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, first isolated from human plasma in 1973. The molecule binds copper ions with high affinity, and it is this copper-peptide complex — rather than the peptide alone — that laboratory research focuses on. Full Scale Peptides supplies it as a lyophilized powder, third-party tested, with the batch Certificate of Analysis published on this page.
How does GHK-Cu differ from other copper peptides?
“Copper peptide” describes a class, not a single compound. GHK-Cu is the most extensively studied member, distinguished by three properties:
- Defined sequence — a specific tripeptide, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, rather than a variable peptide fraction
- High copper affinity — binds Cu(II) with a stability constant that allows it to carry copper under physiological conditions
- Endogenous origin — occurs naturally in human plasma, where concentration declines with age
Other copper-binding peptides exist, but the research literature is overwhelmingly built on this compound, which is why it serves as the standard reference in its class.
What is GHK-Cu used for in laboratory research?
- Extracellular matrix studies — collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in cellular models
- Gene expression research — transcriptional modulation in cultured cells
- Copper transport models — how the complex delivers copper ions to cellular targets
- Tissue remodeling pathways — matrix protein turnover in preclinical systems
Specifications
| Compound | GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) |
| CAS Number | 89030-95-5 (reference specification; not stated on published COA) |
| Molecular Formula | C14H22CuN6O4 (reference specification) |
| Molecular Weight | 401.91 g/mol (reference specification) |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (3 amino acids) |
| Net peptide content | 62.49 mg (published COA, accession 2602150270) |
| Purity | 99.634% (HPLC-UV, published COA) |
| Identity | GHK-Cu (LC-MS method stated on COA) |
| Form | Blue lyophilized powder |
| Lot | FSP-GHKCU-0126-A |
| COA report date | February 17, 2026 |
| Storage | -20°C, protect from light and moisture |
| SKU | FSP-GHKCU-50MG |
How is GHK-Cu stored and reconstituted?
Store the sealed lyophilized vial at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or a sterile laboratory solvent, directing the stream against the vial wall rather than onto the powder. The copper complex is light-sensitive — protect reconstituted material from light and store refrigerated. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. See storage and handling best practices.
Certificate of Analysis
The published COA for lot FSP-GHKCU-0126-A (accession 2602150270) was reported by Freedom Diagnostics on February 17, 2026. The certificate reports 99.634% purity and 62.49 mg net peptide content, with GHK-Cu identity listed. Learn how to read a COA, or browse the full COA library.
Primary literature
Research on this compound is indexed at PubMed, and identity can be independently verified against PubChem.
Research Use Notice: All compounds supplied by Full Scale Peptides are intended strictly for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, medical use, or diagnostic purposes. Supplied exclusively to qualified professionals, institutions, and laboratories engaged in scientific research.
Research background: GHK-Cu research overview · Storage & handling best practices
