GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex present in human plasma, saliva, and urine. First isolated by Dr. Loren Pickart, it has accumulated one of the most robust research portfolios of any endogenous peptide, with published studies examining its effects on collagen synthesis, wound contraction, tissue remodeling, and anti-inflammatory gene expression.

GHK-Cu acts as a biological signal for tissue repair, upregulating growth factors and activating genes associated with skin and connective tissue regeneration. Its copper chelation properties add another dimension to its research profile, with implications for antioxidant enzyme activity.

Each Etched Research vial contains 100mg of lyophilized powder, purity-verified at ≥99% via HPLC and mass spectrometry. Batch-specific Certificate of Analysis included.

Specifications:
– Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄·Cu
– Molecular Weight: 403.91 g/mol (copper complex)
– Sequence: Gly-His-Lys
– Purity: ≥99% (HPLC + Mass Spectrometry)
– Form: Lyophilized powder
– Storage: -20°C (lyophilized); 4°C once reconstituted, use within 30 days

FOR IN VITRO RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION, INGESTION, OR ANY IN VIVO USE.

Research at a Glance

What it is: A small copper-binding tripeptide, three amino acids locked to a copper ion.
Researchers have studied it for: how copper-peptide biology drives matrix remodeling, growth-factor output, and gene expression in cell and animal models.
Evidence level: Almost all preclinical (isolated cells and short animal work). One human wound-repair trial is registered but still recruiting.
The short version: Most of what researchers know about GHK-Cu comes from cells in a dish and short animal studies of copper-peptide biology. They frame it as a modulator of tissue remodeling, but the human case is not settled. This is a summary of research, not a reason to use anything.

Read the research →