GHK-CU

GHK-Cu is a copper-associated tripeptide complex composed of the peptide sequence glycine-histidine-lysine (GHK) coordinated with copper.

Unlike a conventional uncomplexed peptide, GHK-Cu can be represented using different copper-to-peptide stoichiometries, hydration states, and counter-ion forms. For this reason, assigning one universal CAS number, molecular formula, or molecular weight to every GHK-Cu product can be technically inaccurate.

The exact copper complex, stoichiometric ratio, salt form, purity specification, and lot-specific analytical profile should therefore be confirmed using the applicable Certificate of Analysis.

Research Applications

GHK-Cu may be examined in controlled non-clinical research involving:

• Metal-peptide complex characterization
• Copper coordination studies
• Peptide identity analysis
• Molecular interaction research
• Structure-function studies
• Comparative analytical chemistry
• Stability assessment
• Non-clinical biochemical and cellular models

Experimental findings should remain specific to the applicable research system and should not be interpreted as evidence of cosmetic, regenerative, dermatological, therapeutic, or clinical effectiveness.

Structural Information

The peptide component of GHK-Cu contains three amino-acid residues:

Gly-His-Lys

One-letter representation:

GHK

The copper ion is coordinated by functional groups within the peptide, producing a metal-peptide complex rather than a simple unmodified tripeptide.

Because copper coordination chemistry can produce different analytical representations, technical documentation should specify the exact complex supplied rather than relying solely on the shorthand GHK-Cu.

Molecular Specification Considerations

Published and commercial records may represent GHK-Cu using different stoichiometric forms.

Examples include:

• 1:1 GHK-Cu representations with molecular mass around 400.9 g/mol
• Higher-stoichiometry copper-peptide representations with different formulas and molecular masses
• Acetate or other counter-ion-associated forms with additional molecular mass

These values are not interchangeable. The actual product COA should determine the formula, molecular weight, copper-to-peptide ratio, and CAS identification used on the product page.

Analytical Identification

Relevant analytical characterization may include:

• GHK peptide identity confirmation
• Copper-content determination
• Copper-to-peptide ratio assessment
• Molecular mass analysis
• Chromatographic purity testing
• Metal-complex characterization
• Spectrometric analysis
• Lot-specific quality testing

Specifications & Documentation

Lot-specific documentation should be reviewed for:

• GHK peptide identity
• Copper complex identity
• Copper-to-peptide stoichiometry
• CAS number, where applicable
• Molecular formula
• Molecular weight
• Counter-ion form
• Purity specification
• Copper content
• Analytical testing
• Lot or batch identification
• Certificate of Analysis
• Storage requirements

Authenticated product-specific documentation should take precedence over generalized GHK-Cu reference specifications.

Storage & Handling

Store according to the conditions specified on the product label and Certificate of Analysis. Protect the