GHK-Cu is a copper-associated tripeptide composed of the amino-acid sequence Gly-His-Lys coordinated with copper.
Unlike a simple uncomplexed peptide, GHK-Cu can be represented in multiple coordination and stoichiometric forms. PubChem currently lists a 1:1 copper tripeptide representation with molecular formula C₁₄H₂₁CuN₆O₄⁻ and molecular weight 400.90 g/mol, while another deposited GHK-Cu structure is represented as C₂₈H₄₈CuN₁₂O₈ with molecular weight 744.3 g/mol.
The exact molecular formula, molecular weight, copper-to-peptide ratio, counter-ion form, and purity specification should therefore be taken from the applicable Certificate of Analysis.
Research Applications
GHK-Cu may be examined in controlled non-clinical research involving:
- Copper-peptide coordination studies
- Peptide identity and characterization
- Metal-binding research
- Molecular interaction analysis
- Structure-function studies
- Analytical peptide comparison
- Stability assessment
- Non-clinical biochemical and cellular models
Any observations should remain specific to the applicable research system and should not be interpreted as evidence of therapeutic, cosmetic, regenerative, or clinical effectiveness.
Structural Information
The peptide portion of GHK-Cu consists of:
Gly-His-Lys
One-letter representation:
GHK
Copper coordination converts the parent tripeptide into a metal-peptide complex. The exact coordination state directly affects how molecular formula and molecular weight are reported.
Analytical Identification
Relevant analytical characterization may include:
- Peptide identity confirmation
- Copper coordination verification
- Copper-content analysis
- Molecular mass assessment
- Chromatographic purity testing
- Structural characterization
- Counter-ion verification
- Lot-specific quality analysis
Specifications & Documentation
Lot-specific documentation should be reviewed for:
- Material identity
- Peptide sequence
- Copper coordination form
- Copper-to-peptide ratio
- Molecular formula
- Molecular weight
- Salt or counter-ion form
- Purity specification
- Analytical testing
- Lot or batch information
- Certificate of Analysis
- Storage requirements
Authenticated product-specific documentation should take precedence over generalized database values.
Storage & Handling
Store according to the conditions specified on the product label and Certificate of Analysis. Protect the material from environmental conditions that could compromise peptide or metal-complex integrity.
Handling should follow established laboratory procedures appropriate for research materials.
Research Use Only
GHK-Cu is supplied exclusively for laboratory research, analytical testing, and scientific reference purposes.
Disclaimer
For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not intended for consumption, administration, cosmetic use, diagnosis, treatment, mitigation, cure, or prevention of any disease. No therapeutic, cosmetic, regenerative, medical, or clinical claims are made or implied. Product information is supplied solely for scientific identification, documentation, and research reference.
