Reference entry · Copper(II) tripeptide complex
GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper peptide GHK · glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
- Class
- Copper(II) tripeptide complex
- Size
- 3 amino acids + copper
- Primary targets (literature)
- Extracellular matrix, gene-expression literature
- Regulatory context
- Cosmetic and research-grade GHK-Cu are distinct supply chains. Not an FDA-approved injectable drug in the U.S.
Overview
GHK-Cu is the copper complex of a naturally occurring tripeptide studied across dermatology, wound-healing, and cosmetic science for decades. It is analytically tractable but frequently sold without adequate identity or copper-content documentation.
Mechanism in research literature
Literature discusses matrix remodeling, collagen-related gene expression, and antioxidant chemistry in cell and tissue models — with much data originating from topical or cosmetic research contexts.
Common research focus areas
- Fibroblast and collagen-expression models
- Copper content and complex stability
- Topical vs. lyophilized research formulations
- HPLC and MS identity for tripeptide + copper
Full literature roundup
Read the cited research summary
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely studied in dermatology and cosmetic research. What the literature shows and where it ends.
GHK-Cu research roundup · 5 minEvaluate catalog material
- COA literacy — read batch documentation before comparing vendors.
- Peptide identity testing — why sequence confirmation matters beyond purity %.
- How we vet sources — our score methodology for recommended vendors.