GHK-Cu Compound Reference
Published · Last updated · Publisher: ENOS Labs USA
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is the tripeptide glycyl-histidyl-lysine bound to a copper(II) ion. GHK occurs naturally in human plasma. Research has examined it in cell culture, wound and tissue remodeling models and in gene expression analyses, and it appears in cosmetic formulations. It is not an approved drug for any therapeutic use.
- Synonyms
- Copper tripeptide 1; Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex; Prezatide copper
- Classification
- Naturally occurring tripeptide complexed with copper(II)
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK is a three residue peptide that binds copper with high affinity. The copper complex is the form most often studied and sold, and its blue color comes from the bound metal.
Research context
Work spans fibroblast and keratinocyte culture, wound models, collagen and extracellular matrix remodeling, and computational analyses of gene expression datasets.
Mechanisms being investigated
- Copper delivery to cells and copper dependent enzymes.
- Changes in expression of genes linked to tissue remodeling, reported from connectivity map style analyses.
Research status
Approval status: Not approved for human use. Highest evidence tier in the cited literature: preclinical.
Not approved by the FDA as a drug. GHK-Cu is used as a cosmetic ingredient, which is a different regulatory category and does not establish any therapeutic effect.
Established findings
- GHK binds copper(II) and is present in human plasma.
- Its chemical identity is documented in PubChem as prezatide copper.
Preliminary or experimental findings
- Tissue remodeling and wound effects from cell and animal models.
- Gene expression associations, which are computational and not outcome measures.
Chemical reference information
| Molecular formula | C14H23CuN6O4+ |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 402.92 g/mol |
| CAS number | 89030-95-5 |
| PubChem CID | 71587328 |
Values taken from the PubChem record.
Testing considerations
- Mass spectrometry should account for the copper complex or report the free peptide explicitly.
- Copper content and the peptide to copper ratio affect color and solubility.
General methods are explained in purity versus identity testing.
What is still unknown
- Clinical relevance of gene expression findings.
- Behavior of the complex across different formulations.
Related resources
ENOS catalog listing: GHK-Cu 100MG, GLOW Blend 70MG, KLOW Blend 80MG
Research use limitations
This page summarizes published research and regulatory status. It is not medical advice and does not describe any use in people. Material supplied by ENOS Labs USA is for in-vitro laboratory research only and is not a drug product, even where a related drug has been approved.
To continue, see the GHK-Cu research overview, how to read a certificate of analysis, why purity and identity are separate tests, the compound directory and the peptide testing glossary.
References
Each source below was opened and checked against its PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov or PubChem record. Links open in a new tab.
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data (PMID 29986520)International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018 · PubMed
- The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling (PMID 18644225)Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 2008 · PubMed
- GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration (PMID 26236730)BioMed Research International, 2015 · PubMed
- Prezatide copper (GHK copper) compound record (PubChem CID 71587328)PubChem · NIH National Library of Medicine
These products are sold strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and are not intended for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or any therapeutic use. Purchaser must be 18 years of age or older and confirms they are a qualified researcher.