Compound file · Skin & tissue research
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with copper(II)) used widely in skin, matrix and tissue research. KUULPEPS supplies 50 mg lyophilised vials, assayed for identity, purity and copper complexation.
- Sequence
- Gly-His-Lys, complexed with Cu(II)
- Form
- Lyophilised powder, blue on reconstitution
- Purity
- ≥ 98% by HPLC, copper complex verified
- Typical reconstitution
- 2 ml BAC water → 25 mg/ml
- Storage (lyophilised)
- 2–8 °C, protected from light
Mechanism of action
GHK is a tripeptide with an exceptionally high affinity for copper(II). The physiologically relevant species in research is the complex — GHK-Cu — which acts as a copper carrier, shuttling the ion between binding partners rather than leaving it free in solution.
The published research literature associates GHK-Cu with extracellular matrix remodelling pathways: collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis signalling, metalloproteinase and anti-protease balance, and antioxidant gene expression. Its copper-carrier role is what distinguishes it from uncomplexed GHK, and it is why copper complexation is an assay parameter, not an afterthought.
The intense blue colour of a reconstituted solution comes from the copper complex itself. A colourless solution suggests the complex is not intact and the vial should not be used for study work.
- Copper(II) carrier tripeptide — the complex is the active species
- Studied in matrix remodelling and collagen-signalling models
- Copper complexation verified per batch, not assumed
- Blue solution colour is an in-vial integrity indicator
Reconstitution
Reconstitute the 50 mg vial with bacteriostatic water for multi-draw work. Two millilitres gives 25 mg/ml; 5 ml gives 10 mg/ml. GHK-Cu dissolves readily and the solution should turn a clear, deep blue within seconds of gentle swirling.
Because GHK-Cu is used at a wide range of concentrations across skin and matrix protocols, choose the diluent volume that makes your working dilution a single, easily measured step rather than a chain of serial dilutions.
- 50 mg + 2 ml = 25 mg/ml · 50 mg + 5 ml = 10 mg/ml
- Run the diluent down the vial wall; swirl, never shake
- Expect a clear deep-blue solution — cloudiness or no colour means discard
- Avoid contact with strong chelators, which will strip the copper from the complex
Storage & stability
Keep lyophilised GHK-Cu refrigerated at 2–8 °C and protected from light; the copper complex is photosensitive and prolonged light exposure degrades it. −20 °C is appropriate for long-term storage of unopened powder.
Reconstituted GHK-Cu should be stored refrigerated, upright and in the dark. Do not freeze the solution. Watch the colour: a fading or browning solution indicates the complex is breaking down and the vial should be retired from study use.
- Unopened lyophilised: 2–8 °C, light-protected
- Reconstituted: 2–8 °C, dark, upright, do not freeze
- Colour change (fading, browning) = degradation; discard
- Keep away from chelating agents and strongly acidic buffers
Lab handling notes
Copper peptides stain — work over a wipeable surface and use gloves. Swab stoppers with 70% isopropyl alcohol before each draw and use a fresh sterile needle every time.
Record the lot number and reconstitution date. Your batch certificate lists the HPLC purity result and the copper complexation check for that specific lot.
GHK-Cu — frequently asked
Why is my GHK-Cu solution blue?
The blue colour comes from the copper(II) complex and is exactly what you should see. A colourless, faded or brown solution suggests the complex is not intact — retire that vial from study use.
How do I get 10 mg/ml from a 50 mg vial?
Add 5 ml of bacteriostatic water. For 25 mg/ml, add 2 ml. Concentration is always milligrams of peptide divided by millilitres of diluent.
Does GHK-Cu need to be protected from light?
Yes. The copper complex is photosensitive both as a powder and in solution. Store vials in their box or another light-blocking container at 2–8 °C.
Is GHK-Cu supplied for cosmetic use?
No. KUULPEPS GHK-Cu is supplied strictly for laboratory research and is not a cosmetic, medicine or supplement.
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≥98% purity, batch-certified, 24h EU dispatch.
Educational information for qualified researchers. KUULPEPS compounds are supplied for laboratory research use only and are not medicines, food supplements or cosmetics. Not for human or veterinary consumption.