Description
Research Overview
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in 1973. It has a high affinity for Cu2+ ions and forms a stable copper complex found endogenously in plasma, saliva, and urine — with plasma concentrations declining significantly with age, from approximately 200 µg/L in young adults to markedly lower levels in older populations.
In controlled laboratory settings, GHK-Cu is studied as a multifunctional signaling peptide with well-documented roles in collagen and elastin synthesis stimulation, wound healing biology, dermal fibroblast function, angiogenesis, and antioxidant gene expression regulation.
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Scientific Background
GHK-Cu is among the most extensively characterized peptides in regenerative and skin biology, with over four decades of peer-reviewed research. It stimulates the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans in skin fibroblast models, activates angiogenesis through upregulation of VEGF and bFGF expression, and modulates the expression of metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs).
Gene expression profiling using the Broad Institute’s Connectivity Map has revealed that GHK-Cu regulates a large number of human genes — including those involved in antioxidant response, DNA repair, and anti-inflammatory pathways. At 1 micromolar concentration, it has been shown to suppress approximately 70% of genes overexpressed in metastatic colon cancer cell lines, suggesting broad genomic regulatory activity beyond its well-known extracellular matrix effects.
Molecular Information
- Peptide Type: Copper-binding tripeptide (naturally occurring)
- Composition: Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine complexed with Cu2+
- Amino Acid Length: 3 amino acids
- Source: Naturally present in human plasma, saliva, and urine
- Research Classification: Regenerative biology and skin research compound
- Purity: ≥99% (HPLC verified)
- Appearance: Lyophilized powder
- Storage: Refrigerated (2–8°C)
Quality & Analytical Standards
Each batch undergoes analytical verification to confirm identity and purity. Batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (COA) are maintained for all production runs and available upon request.
Research Use Only
This product is intended strictly for laboratory research purposes. Not approved for human or veterinary use. No therapeutic or diagnostic claims are made. BioStrata Research supplies materials exclusively for qualified research and analytical applications.

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