GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide composed of three amino acids (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) that complexes a divalent copper ion. It is studied in preclinical research in the context of wound healing, collagen stimulation, antioxidant responses and skin-regeneration models.

How is GHK-Cu typically used in research?

In preclinical models, GHK-Cu is investigated both topically and subcutaneously. Topical applications target skin-regeneration and collagen research, while subcutaneous protocols address systemic models such as tissue repair or skin-quality markers. Specific dosing varies by study design and should be taken from the respective publications.

How do I store GHK-Cu after reconstitution?

Store lyophilised GHK-Cu protected from light at -20 °C. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, storage at 2-8 °C is recommended, also protected from light, since the copper-peptide complex is sensitive to oxidation and UV. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

What quality control backs your GHK-Cu?

Every batch is tested by Janoshik Analytical via HPLC for identity and purity (>=98 %) as well as for the correct Cu complex. The Certificate of Analysis is available on the product page and contains purity data, measurement date and batch number for full traceability.

Buy GHK-Cu - Copper Peptide, Janoshik-Tested

Name: GHK-Cu
Brand: PeptidesDirect
SKU: PD-GHKCU-100MG
Price: 59.99 EUR
Availability: InStock

Copper carrier

GHK binds copper and shuttles it into cells, where copper-dependent enzymes need it for repair and energy production.

Collagen builder

Triggers collagen production in skin cells, the building block of firm, elastic skin and connective tissue.

Wound-healing signal

Sparks new blood vessels and activates fibroblasts, the cell type that closes wounds in repair-focused research.

Calms inflammation

Lowers pro-inflammatory signals in research models, including studies on inflammatory bowel and acute inflammation.

Antioxidant support

Reduces oxidative-stress markers in cells, helping shield them from free-radical damage in lab studies.

Switches genes on and off

Modulates thousands of genes, including DNA-repair and protein-recycling pathways. This is what links GHK-Cu to anti-aging research.

Research areas

Skin & collagenWound healingCopper transportAnti-inflammatoryGene expression

What is GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is a small natural peptide that the body uses to carry copper into cells. It was first found in human plasma in the 1970s. Plasma levels drop with age, which is why researchers are interested in what GHK does and why losing it might matter.

We supply it as the copper-bound complex in lyophilized (freeze-dried) form: the same molecule used in the published studies.

How it works

Copper makes a lot of important enzymes work, from the antioxidant defense to collagen cross-linking. GHK delivers copper exactly where cells need it. On top of that, the peptide itself acts like a switch: it turns thousands of genes on or off, nudging cells toward a more youthful, regenerative state in laboratory experiments.

The strongest evidence is in skin and wound healing. Studies show GHK-Cu boosts collagen production, helps form new capillaries, activates the cells that close wounds, and dampens inflammation, all in cell cultures or animal models.

Often studied alongside

Combined-peptide research most often pairs GHK-Cu with KPV, a small anti-inflammatory peptide derived from alpha-MSH. Both are available in research-grade form below.

Anti-inflammatory peptide commonly paired with GHK-Cu

KPVregeneration

Anti-inflammatory tripeptide derived from alpha-MSH (positions 11-13). Inhibits NF-kB signaling, supports gut barrier integrity, and shows antimicrobial activity. A targeted approach to inflammation research without broad immunosuppression.

For reconstitution, the standard solvent in published protocols is bacteriostatic or sterile water. The dissolved peptide takes on a characteristic blue tint from the copper complex.

Standard solvent for reconstitution

Bacteriostatic Wateraccessories

USP-grade sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol - the standard solvent for reconstituting lyophilized peptides. Essential accessory for any peptide research. Each vial is sealed and ready to use.

Documentation

Material specification

Purity

≥98% (HPLC verified)

Test method

HPLC + mass spectrometry

Form

Lyophilized powder

Storage (sealed)

2 to 8 °C, light-protected

Storage (reconstituted)

2 to 8 °C, use within 4 weeks

CoA

Batch-specific, third-party (Janoshik)

Lab Report (COA)

Batch NumberBlue

Purity99.79%

Testing LabJanoshik

Test Date25 Nov 2025

Download COA

Selected research

Research use only

This material is sold strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. Not intended for human or animal consumption, medical, cosmetic, or household applications. Suitable only for professional laboratory environments.