GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide and one of the most-studied peptides in skin, collagen, and tissue-remodeling research.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide — glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK) complexed with a copper(II) ion. GHK occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, and its concentration declines with age, which is part of why it draws interest in regenerative and cosmetic-science research.
Structure & discovery
The GHK sequence was first identified by Loren Pickart in 1973 as a factor in human plasma. The peptide has a high affinity for copper(II), and the resulting GHK-Cu complex is the form most studied. The molecule is small (peptide MW ~340 Da) and, in solution, carries the characteristic blue tint of a copper complex.
What GHK-Cu is studied for
In laboratory and model systems, GHK-Cu is investigated for:
- Collagen and extracellular-matrix (ECM) synthesis and remodeling.
- Skin and wound research models.
- Antioxidant and copper-transport pathways.
- Hair-follicle research.
Forms & handling
GHK-Cu is supplied as a lyophilized powder and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water; it also appears in topical formulations in cosmetic-science research. Store cold and protected from light — see the storage guide and calculator.
Commonly studied alongside
GHK-Cu is often co-studied with BPC-157 and TB-500 in recovery research, and appears in the GLOW and KLOW blends. See the healing & recovery guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-histidyl-lysine plus copper) studied in skin, collagen, and tissue-remodeling research.
What is GHK-Cu studied for?
In model systems it is investigated for collagen and extracellular-matrix remodeling, wound and skin research, antioxidant activity, and hair-follicle research. These are research directions, not human outcomes.
Why is GHK-Cu blue?
The blue tint comes from the bound copper(II) ion — GHK-Cu is a copper complex.
How is GHK-Cu stored?
Store lyophilized vials cold and protected from light; refrigerate after reconstitution. See our storage guide.
Why researchers order from Miami Peptide Lab
- 99%+ purity, lab-tested every lot — a batch-specific COA is available on request.
- Ships from Miami and across the US in 24–48 business hours with tracking, in discreet cold-chain packaging.
- Buy-more-save-more bundle pricing on every vial, plus a reship-or-refund guarantee.
Research use only
All products referenced here are sold strictly for laboratory and research use. They are not intended for human or animal consumption, nor for any therapeutic, diagnostic, or cosmetic use, and must be handled only by qualified professionals in an appropriate research setting.
