GHK-Cu: the copper tripeptide
Structure, copper affinity and research areas of the Gly-His-Lys tripeptide — a neutral overview, with no claims.
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Identity card
- Class
- Copper tripeptide
- Sequence
- Gly-His-Lys (GHK)
- Formula
- C₁₄H₂₂CuN₆O₄ (complexe) · C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄ (GHK)
- Molecular weight
- 340,38 g/mol (GHK)
- CAS no.
- 49557-75-7 (GHK) · 89030-95-5 (GHK-Cu)
- Discovery
- Isolated from human plasma by Loren Pickart (1973)
A tripeptide that binds copper
GHK is a tripeptide made of three amino acids — glycine, histidine and lysine (Gly-His-Lys). It has a strong affinity for the copper(II) ion, with which it forms a complex: this form, written GHK-Cu, is the most studied.
The free peptide has the formula C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄ and a molecular weight of about 340.38 g/mol. In the complex, the histidine and the peptide backbone coordinate the copper atom.
Naturally present in the body
GHK was isolated from human plasma by Loren Pickart in 1973, and its structure identified in 1977. It occurs naturally in plasma, saliva and urine.
Its plasma level declines with age: around 200 ng/ml at about age 20, falling to around 80 ng/ml near age 60. These are descriptive facts, with no implication of use.
Research areas under study
In the scientific literature, GHK-Cu is studied along several lines: wound-healing mechanisms, collagen synthesis, skin biology, copper transport and modulation of gene expression.
Noting that a field is 'under study' implies no established result, no benefit and no validated application. This content is educational and describes neither effect nor human use.
Strictly educational and scientific content. No effect, benefit or human use is described. Products are intended solely for laboratory research (RUO): they are neither medicines nor food supplements. For any health question, consult a qualified professional.