Comprehensive research overview of GHK copper peptide: molecular structure, copper-binding mechanism, gene expression modulation, and laboratory applications in tissue remodeling research.
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II)) is a naturally occurring tripeptide–copper complex first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Dr. Loren Pickart. It consists of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine — bound to a copper(II) ion through a high-affinity chelation bond.
GHK is found naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations declining significantly with age. This age-related decline, combined with its broad influence on gene expression, has made it a subject of considerable research interest.
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GHK has a molecular weight of approximately 403.93 g/mol (CAS: 49557-75-7). The molecular formula is C14H23CuN6O4. The free peptide without copper weighs 340.38 g/mol.
Key structural features:
The peptide serves as a biological copper transport vehicle, delivering Cu²⁺ to cells where it participates in enzymatic reactions and gene regulation.
Microarray studies using the Broad Institute's Connectivity Map show GHK affects expression of over 4,000 human genes (~6% of the genome). GHK tends to:
These properties are complementary to glutathione (cellular detoxification) and NAD+ (sirtuin-mediated protective pathways).
In vitro fibroblast studies examine collagen, elastin, and ECM remodeling. GHK is a component of the GLOW research blend, combined with Body Protection Compound 157 and TB for multi-pathway research.
Used as a model compound in transcriptomics studies, examining how a small peptide influences thousands of genes simultaneously.
Serves as a tool for studying copper homeostasis, metalloprotein function, and trace metal biology.
The age-related decline in endogenous GHK, combined with its gene expression effects, positions it as a compound of interest in aging biology research.
The Wolverine blend (Body Protection Compound 157 + TB) and GHK represent complementary tissue repair pathways — Body Protection Compound 157 via nitric oxide, TB via actin binding, GHK via copper-mediated ECM remodeling.
See our guide on evaluating peptide vendors for quality assessment frameworks. For sourcing information, see our GHK buying guide.
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycine-histidine-lysine + Cu²⁺) studied for gene expression modulation, ECM remodeling, and metalloprotein biology.
Cu²⁺ is a cofactor for key enzymes (lysyl oxidase, SOD). GHK delivers copper to tissues for enzymatic processes and gene regulation.
403.93 g/mol for the copper complex (CAS: 49557-75-7). Formula: C₁₄H₂₃CuN₆O₄.
Dermatological science, gene expression profiling, antioxidant biology, ECM research, copper biology, and aging/longevity studies.
It chelates copper, is only 3 amino acids, and affects 4,000+ genes. Its activity is mediated through copper delivery rather than receptor binding.
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View Certificate of Analysis Explore Research-Grade PeptidesThis compound is intended for laboratory research use only. Not approved for human or veterinary use.