GHK-Cu 50 mg – High-Purity Copper Peptide
Research context overview
This research-grade peptide is supplied exclusively for laboratory and experimental use. GHK-Cu is studied in laboratory models focusing on tissue remodeling, cellular communication, and extracellular matrix–related repair mechanisms.
Primary research pairing
In experimental and laboratory research settings, GHK-Cu is frequently examined alongside peptides involved in tissue-associated signaling, extracellular matrix dynamics, and cellular repair pathways.
→ BPC-157 (vial) – peptide-mediated tissue signaling research
→ TB-500 (vial) – cytoskeletal and cellular migration research
Redox and cellular balance research context
Some experimental frameworks explore GHK-Cu in parallel with compounds studied for redox regulation, oxidative stress balance, and intracellular signaling stability.
→ L-Glutathione – redox balance and antioxidant research
Neurobiological and advanced signaling research context
In more specialized experimental models, GHK-Cu may be referenced alongside compounds examined for neurotrophic signaling and higher-order molecular communication pathways.
→ Dihexa – neurotrophic and synaptic signaling research
Alternative formulation and exposure models
Certain research discussions reference GHK-Cu alongside alternative peptide formats when evaluating delivery considerations and experimental exposure models.
→ BPC-157 (capsules) – comparative peptide format research
GHK-Cu Overview
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II) complex) is an endogenous peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. GHK-Cu structures enable safe copper transport into cells, modulating regenerative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory processes at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations.
Fibroblast Stimulation
GHK-Cu activates dermal fibroblasts (connective tissue cells that produce extracellular matrix), enhancing extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. It upregulates mRNA (messenger RNA) for collagen type I, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs; e.g., dermatan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, decorin) via the TGF-β (transforming growth factor beta) signaling pathway, increasing integrin β1 expression and restoring fibroblast function in damaged tissues (e.g., COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) lungs). It boosts collagen synthesis by 70–230% in wound models and elevates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs; MMP1, MMP2) while balancing their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs; TIMP1, TIMP2) to prevent excessive ECM degradation. Evidence: In vitro fibroblast studies and rat wound models show up to 9-fold collagen increase; gene profiling confirms TGF-β pathway activation.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
GHK-Cu mimics superoxide dismutase (SOD) by supplying bioavailable Cu²⁺ for Cu,Zn-SOD1 (copper-zinc superoxide dismutase 1), reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. It blocks Fe²⁺ (iron(II) ion) release from ferritin (87% inhibition), decreases lipid peroxidation byproducts (e.g., 4-hydroxynonenal, acrolein), and inhibits Cu²⁺-dependent LDL oxidation (full protection vs. 20% for SOD1 alone). Anti-inflammatory actions involve suppression of NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) p65 and p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase), lowering TNF-α, IL-6, and fibrinogen. In lung injury models, it elevates SOD activity and curbs ROS-induced inflammation. Evidence: Keratinocyte UV protection assays and fibroblast cultures show cytokine reduction; animal models confirm ROS scavenging and anti-inflammatory gene modulation.
Enhancement of Angiogenesis
GHK-Cu promotes new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, also known as FGF2) secretion from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and fibroblasts. Released from SPARC (secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine) protein during tissue injury, it stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and vessel growth in early wound phases, while inhibiting excess later via SPARC restoration. Gene data show +487% expression of ANGPT1 (angiopoietin 1). Evidence: Rabbit wound studies demonstrate enhanced granulation tissue and vessels; in vitro MSC assays confirm VEGF/bFGF increases.
Gene Expression Modulation
GHK-Cu alters the expression of over 1,000 genes (e.g., 1,569 upregulated, 583 downregulated at ≥50% change), acting as an epigenetic modifier by inhibiting histone deacetylases (HDACs) to reverse gene silencing. It activates regenerative pathways (e.g., TGF-β, integrins, p63 (tumor protein p63)) and suppresses cancer-related genes (70% of 54 metastatic colon cancer genes). In neurons, it upregulates 408 genes (e.g., OPRM1 (opioid receptor mu 1) +1,294%) for development and pain relief. Evidence: Microarray analyses (e.g., Connectivity Map database) show broad impacts; COPD gene reversal (127 genes) and ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) pathway activation (41 genes upregulated) support tissue repair roles.
Compound background and research mechanisms
For a detailed research-focused overview of GHK-Cu, including its role in cellular communication, extracellular matrix remodeling, and antioxidant regulation, see:
→ What is GHK-Cu? – Research overview
Related research context
To explore how this compound fits into broader experimental frameworks focused on cellular homeostasis, metabolic balance, antioxidant regulation, and long-term functional maintenance, see:
→ Cellular Homeostasis & Health Maintenance Research
Product Description
- Product Name: GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide)
- Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄
- Synonyms : Prezatide copper, Copper peptide, BCP32687, SY253680, GHK copper; CG-copper peptide; [N2-(N-Glycyl-L-histidyl)-L-lysinato(2-)]copper
- Molar Mass : 401.91 g/mol
- CAS Number : 89030-95-5
- PubChem : 78122578
- Total Amount of the Active Ingredient: 50 mg / vial
Product Usage
In vitro research or further manufacturing use only. Not for human or animal use.
Peptide Storage
All information provided by PRG is for educational and informational purposes only.
Best Practices for Storing Peptides
To maintain the reliability of laboratory results, correct peptide storage is essential. Proper storage conditions help preserve peptide stability for years while protecting against contamination, oxidation, and breakdown. Although certain peptides are more sensitive than others, following these best practices will greatly extend their shelf life and structural integrity.
- Short-Term Storage (days to months): Keep peptides cool and protected from light. Temperatures below 4 °C (39 °F) are generally suitable. Lyophilized peptides often remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, but refrigeration is still preferred if use is not immediate.
- Long-Term Storage (months to years): Store peptides at –80 °C (–112 °F) for maximum stability. Avoid frost-free freezers, as defrost cycles can cause damaging temperature fluctuations.
- Minimize Freeze–Thaw Cycles: Repeated freezing and thawing accelerates degradation. Instead, divide peptides into aliquots before freezing.
Preventing Oxidation & Moisture Damage
Peptides can be compromised by exposure to moisture and air—especially immediately after removal from a freezer.
- Let the vial warm to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.
- Keep containers sealed as much as possible, and if possible, reseal under a dry, inert gas such as nitrogen or argon.
- Amino acids like cysteine (C), methionine (M), and tryptophan (W) are particularly sensitive to oxidation.
Storing Peptides in Solution
Peptides in solution have a much shorter lifespan compared to lyophilized form and are prone to bacterial degradation.
- If storage in solution is unavoidable, use sterile buffers at pH 5–6.
- Prepare single-use aliquots to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
- Most peptide solutions are stable for up to 30 days at 4 °C (39 °F), but sensitive sequences should remain frozen when not in use.
Containers for Peptide Storage
Select containers that are clean, intact, chemically resistant, and appropriately sized for the sample.
- Glass vials: offer clarity, durability, and chemical resistance.
- Plastic vials: polystyrene (clear but less resistant) or polypropylene (translucent but chemically resistant).
- Peptides shipped in plastic vials may be transferred to glass for long-term storage if desired.
Regenesis Peptide Storage Quick Tips
- Keep peptides in a cold, dry, dark environment
- Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles
- Minimize exposure to air
- Protect from light
- Avoid storing in solution long term
- Aliquot peptides to match experimental needs