GHK-Cu Canada: Copper Peptide (GHK) Research Guide
11 Jul 2026GHK-Cu Canada: Copper Peptide (GHK) Research Guide
GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the naturally occurring human tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK) — a copper-binding signal peptide first isolated from human plasma in 1973 and studied primarily for tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. This guide is a complete reference for Canadian laboratory researchers: molecular profile, the copper-delivery mechanism, the published skin-regeneration and gene-expression research, third-party purity, handling, and domestic sourcing of GHK-Cu 50mg.
Key takeaways
- A natural human copper-binding peptide. GHK (Gly-His-Lys) occurs in plasma, saliva, and urine; its copper complex, GHK-Cu, is the researched form. Plasma levels fall from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60.
- Most studied for skin & tissue remodeling. Published research reports stimulation of collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, wound-healing activity, and antioxidant / anti-inflammatory effects.
- A broad gene-expression modulator. Pickart, Vasquez-Soltero & Margolina (2015) describe GHK as capable of up- and down-regulating at least 4,000 human genes toward a regenerative profile.
- Research use only. A laboratory reference compound — not approved by Health Canada or the FDA, not for human consumption.
- Canadian-owned, shipped domestically with free, tracked Canada-wide shipping and no minimum order; independently HPLC-assayed at 99.490% by Janoshik Analytical (ref #210586), Testides confirmation pending; $49.00 CAD for a 50 mg vial.
GHK-Cu Quick Facts
| Compound class | Copper-binding tripeptide complex (Copper tripeptide-1) |
|---|---|
| Peptide sequence | Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (Gly-His-Lys) |
| CAS number (Cu complex) | 89030-95-5 |
| CAS number (GHK peptide) | 49557-75-7 |
| Molecular formula | GHK: C14H24N6O4; Cu complex: C14H22CuN6O4 |
| Molar mass | GHK ~340.4 g/mol; GHK-Cu ~401.9 g/mol |
| Form | Lyophilized powder, 50 mg vial (blue — copper-bound) |
| Verified purity | 99.490% by HPLC with 50.43 mg of measured GHK content, Janoshik Analytical ref #210586; our Testides (Toronto) confirmation pending |
| Storage | Lyophilized (sealed): store cool and dark; −20 °C long-term |
| Discovery | Isolated from human plasma by Loren Pickart, 1973 |
| Shipping origin | Ships from British Columbia, Canada |
| Price | $49.00 CAD for the 50 mg vial (SKU GHKCU-50MG), with free, tracked Canada-wide shipping and no minimum order. |
What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of GHK, a small tripeptide made of the amino acids glycine, L-histidine, and L-lysine. The peptide occurs naturally in the human body — in plasma, saliva, and urine — where it binds copper ions with high affinity and acts as a signalling molecule involved in tissue repair. It was first isolated from human plasma by biochemist Loren Pickart in 1973, and identified as the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine a few years later.
A defining feature of GHK is that its biological activity is tied to copper. In the body the peptide shuttles copper — an essential cofactor for many repair enzymes — and the copper-bound form (GHK-Cu) is the version studied for regenerative signalling. In the research-peptide context it is supplied as a lyophilized powder, characteristically blue from the bound copper, for laboratory research only.
Molecular Profile
GHK is a three-residue peptide (Gly-His-Lys); the imidazole of histidine and the amino terminus form the primary copper-coordination site. The free peptide has a molar mass of about 340.4 g/mol; on binding one copper(II) ion (with loss of protons) the complex mass rises to approximately 401.9 g/mol. The copper complex is also known by the INN prezatide copper acetate and the cosmetic name Copper tripeptide-1.
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) |
|---|---|
| CAS (Cu complex) | 89030-95-5 |
| CAS (GHK peptide) | 49557-75-7 |
| Formula (peptide) | C14H24N6O4 |
| Formula (Cu complex) | C14H22CuN6O4 |
| Molar mass | GHK ~340.4 g/mol; GHK-Cu ~401.9 g/mol |
| Copper coordination | High-affinity Cu(II) binding via histidine imidazole & N-terminus |
Verifying identity and purity against a Certificate of Analysis is standard before a lot enters any protocol. ↑ Back to top
How GHK-Cu Works: Copper Delivery & Signalling
The published mechanism has two intertwined arms: copper transport and gene-level signalling. GHK binds copper reversibly and can exchange it with other copper-binding molecules, making it a physiological carrier that delivers copper to enzymes and tissues involved in repair. Copper is a required cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen and elastin cross-linking) and for superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defence), which links GHK-Cu to connective-tissue remodeling and redox balance.
Beyond copper delivery, Pickart and colleagues’ reviews describe GHK acting as a broad transcriptional modulator. Analyses of gene-expression data attribute to GHK the ability to up- and down-regulate at least 4,000 human genes — shifting expression toward patterns associated with tissue regeneration, DNA repair, and reduced inflammation. In dermal fibroblast studies it has been reported to lower pro-inflammatory signalling (for example TNF-α and IL-6) and to stimulate synthesis of collagen and glycosaminoglycans. ↑ Back to top
Research & Evidence
GHK-Cu is one of the longest-studied copper peptides, with a research record spanning five decades. The strongest bodies of published work are in skin regeneration and wound healing; much of the human data comes from topical cosmetic studies, and broader claims remain under active investigation. These are reported research findings, presented for scientific reference only.
Collagen, elastin & skin remodeling
In cultured skin fibroblasts and animal models, GHK-Cu has been reported to stimulate synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans and to support the turnover (both synthesis and controlled breakdown) of the dermal matrix — the basis for its study as a skin-remodeling and anti-aging research compound (Pickart, Vasquez-Soltero & Margolina, 2015; Pickart, 2008).
Wound healing & angiogenesis
Animal studies summarized in the literature report improved wound contraction, faster development of granulation tissue, recruitment of immune and repair cells to injury sites, and enhanced blood-vessel growth (angiogenesis). Translational interest continues: a Phase 2, randomised, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study of a topical GHK-Cu gel in standardised acute skin wounds is registered as NCT07437586 and was recruiting as of this update; no results have been published.
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory & gene expression
Reviews describe antioxidant activity (including quenching of reactive products of lipid peroxidation) and anti-inflammatory effects, alongside the broad gene-modulating profile noted above. The 2018 review by Pickart & Margolina reframes these actions in light of newer gene-expression datasets. ↑ Back to top
Research Applications
In a laboratory setting GHK-Cu is used as a reference compound for investigating copper-peptide biology: collagen and extracellular-matrix synthesis assays, fibroblast and keratinocyte studies, wound-healing and angiogenesis models, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathway work, and transcriptomic studies of its gene-modulating profile. Because its mechanism is distinct from the incretin and body-repair peptides, it is often studied alongside recovery compounds such as BPC-157 and TB-500 rather than the metabolic GLP-1 agonists. These are research contexts only and do not describe any use in humans or animals. ↑ Back to top
GHK-Cu vs BPC-157 vs TB-500
All three are studied in the tissue-repair space, but they act through different mechanisms and are not interchangeable. The table summarizes the distinction for research planning.
| Compound | Class / origin | Primary research focus |
|---|---|---|
| GHK-Cu | Copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) | Collagen/matrix synthesis, skin & wound remodeling, gene modulation |
| BPC-157 | Synthetic peptide fragment (body-protection compound) | Gut & soft-tissue repair, angiogenesis |
| TB-500 | Thymosin β-4 fragment | Actin regulation, cell migration & recovery |
Some researchers study GHK-Cu alongside the BPC-157 + TB-500 Wolverine Blend as a complementary matrix-remodeling reference. ↑ Back to top
Purity, COA & Third-Party Testing
The current GHK-Cu lot was independently assayed by Janoshik Analytical at 99.490% purity by HPLC, with 50.43 mg of measured GHK content, published under Janoshik ref #210586. That is a manufacturer-commissioned result rather than a certificate issued to us: the lot is with Testides (Toronto) for our own confirmatory HPLC and is shown as pending on our lab results page until that certificate is released. Neither laboratory is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 — accreditation is granted by an accreditation body for a named scope of methods and carries a certificate number you can look up, and phrases such as “ISO 17025-aligned” are self-descriptions with no external assessment behind them. To validate a lot yourself, see our guide on where to get research peptides tested in Canada. ↑ Back to top
Handling (Research Context)
GHK-Cu ships as a lyophilized powder and is handled as a light-sensitive laboratory reference material. The copper complex gives the powder a characteristic blue tint. Confirm identity and purity against the batch Certificate of Analysis before a lot enters any protocol. For laboratory and research use only — not for human consumption, veterinary use, or therapeutic application; not directions for any in-vivo use. ↑ Back to top
Storage & Stability
Lyophilized GHK-Cu is most stable stored frozen at −20 °C for the long term (2–8 °C for short periods), kept sealed and away from light, avoiding repeated warming and freeze-thaw cycling. Inspect for cloudiness or unexpected colour change before a lot enters any protocol. This guide covers sealed-vial storage only and contains no dosing, administration, route, reconstitution or preparation information; none is available on request. ↑ Back to top
Why Canadian Researchers Source Domestically
- No customs seizures — domestic shipments avoid border delays and confiscation risk on cold-chain-sensitive material.
- Faster shipping — in-country logistics (ships from British Columbia) protect integrity and timelines. Shipping is free and tracked Canada-wide, with no minimum order.
- CAD pricing — transparent Canadian-dollar pricing with no surprise conversion or duties.
See our guide to buying research peptides in Canada. ↑ Back to top
Shop GHK-Cu 50mg — $49.00 CAD, 99.490% HPLC, ships from BC →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does GHK-Cu cost in Canada?
At ThePeptide.ca, the GHK-Cu 50 mg research vial is $49.00 CAD. Every order ships free and tracked across Canada with no minimum order, and volume pricing is automatic at checkout with no code — 10% off at 3 or more units, 15% at 5 or more, 20% at 10 or more, across all products with no exclusions.
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is the copper complex of the human tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK). It is a naturally occurring copper-binding signal peptide found in plasma, first isolated in 1973, studied mainly for tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. It is supplied here for research use only.
What is GHK-Cu researched for?
The published research focuses on skin regeneration and wound healing — stimulation of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, angiogenesis, and broad gene-expression modulation. These are reported research findings, not approved uses, and GHK-Cu is not for human consumption.
Is GHK-Cu legal to buy in Canada?
GHK-Cu sold by ThePeptide.ca is supplied strictly for laboratory and research use only. It is not approved by Health Canada or the FDA for the applications discussed and is not for human or veterinary use. See our research-use-only explainer. This is general information, not legal advice.
What is GHK-Cu's CAS number and molecular formula?
The copper complex has CAS number 89030-95-5 (the free GHK peptide is 49557-75-7). GHK has molecular formula C14H24N6O4 (~340.4 g/mol); the copper complex is C14H22CuN6O4 (~401.9 g/mol). Its sequence is glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine.
How is GHK-Cu different from BPC-157 or TB-500?
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for collagen/matrix synthesis and skin remodeling. BPC-157 is a body-protection-compound fragment studied for soft-tissue and gut repair; TB-500 is a thymosin beta-4 fragment studied for cell migration and recovery. They act through different mechanisms.
What purity is ThePeptide.ca GHK-Cu?
The current lot was independently assayed by Janoshik Analytical at 99.490% purity by HPLC, with 50.43 mg of measured GHK content, under Janoshik ref #210586. That is a manufacturer result rather than a certificate issued to us: the lot is with Testides in Toronto for our own confirmatory HPLC and is shown as pending on the lab results page until that certificate is released.
Why is GHK-Cu blue?
The blue colour comes from the bound copper(II) ion. GHK binds copper with high affinity, and copper(II) complexes are characteristically blue, so both the powder and the dissolved solution take on a blue tint. A strong colour change can indicate degradation.
Who discovered GHK-Cu?
Biochemist Loren Pickart isolated GHK from human plasma in 1973 and, with colleagues, characterized it as a copper-binding tripeptide. He is also senior author of the widely cited reviews summarizing its mechanisms — the 2015 review with Jessica Vasquez-Soltero and Anna Margolina, and the 2018 review with Anna Margolina.
Does GHK occur naturally in the body?
Yes. GHK is present in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Its plasma level is about 200 ng/mL around age 20 and declines to roughly 80 ng/mL by age 60 — a drop that parallels reduced regenerative capacity, which is part of why it is studied.
How is GHK-Cu stored?
GHK-Cu is a light-sensitive lyophilized powder. Store sealed, unopened material frozen at −20 °C for the long term, or at 2–8 °C for short periods, protected from light and avoiding freeze-thaw cycling. This guide covers sealed-vial storage only and contains no reconstitution or preparation guidance.
Related Research Resources
- GHK-Cu 50mg (product page & COA)
- BPC-157 Canada guide · TB-500 Canada guide · BPC-157 + TB-500 Wolverine Blend
- How to store research peptides
- Where to get research peptides tested in Canada · How to buy research peptides in Canada
- Are peptides legal in Canada? · Start here: research library
References
- Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. BioMed Research International. 2015;2015:648108. DOI: 10.1155/2015/648108. PMID: 26236730. PMC
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987. DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071987. PMID: 29986520. PMC
- Pickart L. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2008;19(8):969-988. PMID: 18644225.
- Pickart L, Thaler MM. Tripeptide in human serum which prolongs survival of normal liver cells and stimulates growth in neoplastic liver. Nature New Biology. 1973;243:85-87. PMID: 4349963.
- Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT07437586.