GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide — a chain of three amino acids (glycine, histidine, and lysine) bound to a copper(II) ion. Its molecular formula is C₁₄H₂₁CuN₆O₄, with a molecular weight of 404.9 g/mol and CAS number 89030-95-5. The peptide was first identified in 1973 by Loren Pickart during research on human plasma, where he observed that a small copper-peptide complex was present in younger blood samples at higher concentrations than in older ones.

The copper ion is coordinated to the peptide through the nitrogen atoms of the glycine and histidine residues, giving the compound its distinctive blue color in crystalline form. This type of metal-peptide complex is relatively unusual among research peptides. GHK-Cu is naturally found in trace amounts in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It is classified as a metallopeptide — a peptide that incorporates a metal ion as part of its structure. The compound is supplied as a blue crystalline powder, highly soluble in water, and should be stored refrigerated at 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) and protected from light.

This product is strictly for research purposes only.

PubChem Reference: View compound profile on NIH PubChem