What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II) complex) is a Copper-binding tripeptide. Naturally occurring copper tripeptide that activates fibroblasts to upregulate collagen I/III/IV and elastin synthesis, inhibits MMP-1/2/9 collagen degradation enzymes, activates lysyl oxidase for collagen cross-linking, stimulates wound bed angiogenesis via VEGF/FGF-2, and activates Nrf2 antioxidant response element genes. Plasma concentration declines ~60% with ageing.
Research Applications
Collagen Synthesis
Fibroblast activation — collagen types I, III, IV gene upregulation
MMP Inhibition
MMP-1/2/9 inhibition — protects newly synthesised ECM from degradation
Cross-linking
Lysyl oxidase (copper-dependent) activation — tensile strength
Wound Angiogenesis
VEGF/FGF-2 upregulation, neovascularisation in wound bed
Nrf2 Antioxidant
Antioxidant gene expression — SOD, catalase, HO-1 upregulation
Quick Specs
| Form |
C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄ |
| Purity |
≥99% by HPLC — every batch |
| CAS Number |
89030-95-5 |
| Molecular Weight |
MS molecular weight confirmed — every batch |
| Specification |
≥99% by HPLC — every batch |
| Shelf Life |
24 months unopened |
| Storage |
-20°C sealed | 2–8°C reconstituted (2–4 weeks) |
| Manufacture |
In-house Fmoc SPPS — Qingdao, China |
| Brand |
Asia |
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reconstitute this peptide?
Add 1–2mL bacteriostatic water or sterile water to the lyophilized GHK-Cu vial. GHK-Cu dissolves quickly — the solution will appear faintly blue-green due to the copper(II) chelation. This is normal. Swirl gently and do not shake.
How should this peptide be stored?
Store lyophilized at −20°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C for up to 28 days. The copper coordination chemistry makes GHK-Cu more stable than many peptides; however, avoid extreme pH and oxidizing conditions.
What purity is this QSC compound and how is it verified?
QSC GHK-Cu is ≥99% pure by HPLC with MS-confirmed molecular weight for the Gly-His-Lys-Cu²⁺ complex on every batch. COA is published on the product page and verifiable via Janoshik.
🧪 Peptide Research Tools: Use QSC's free
peptide calculators — reconstitution, BAC water, dosing, half-life, and mixing charts.
🌍 Domestic shipping: 🇺🇸 USA 5–7 days
🌏 International shipping: 7–14 days
⚠️ RESEARCH USE ONLY — NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION
QSC products are strictly for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research.
Safety & Handling
🚫
Not for Human Use
These compounds are for research only.
🥽
PPE Required
Always use appropriate protective equipment.
❄️
Storage Compliance
Follow product-specific storage conditions.
Product-Specific Storage
-20°C sealed | 2–8°C reconstituted (2–4 weeks)