What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper). It is one of the most studied peptides in regenerative and dermatological research because of its role in copper transport and remodeling of the extracellular matrix.
How GHK-Cu works (research mechanism)
Research associates GHK-Cu with stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signaling, and modulation of genes involved in tissue remodeling. The injectable form is studied separately from topical cosmetic applications.
Primary research applications
Skin and tissue regeneration research
GHK-Cu is studied for wound-model healing, extracellular-matrix remodeling, and collagen synthesis.
Hair-follicle research
It appears frequently in hair-growth and follicle-signaling research models.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant studies
Its copper-transport role is studied for redox and inflammation endpoints.
Research dosing reference
Research references commonly cite 1-2 mg administered 3-5 times per week. Reference values only.
Reconstitution & handling
GHK-Cu ships as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder and must be reconstituted before use in any liquid research model. Allow the vial to reach room temperature, swab the stopper, then add bacteriostatic water slowly down the inside wall of the vial - never spray it directly onto the powder. Swirl gently until dissolved; do not shake, as shaking foams the solution and stresses the peptide. The volume of water you add sets the concentration: a 5 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL yields 2,500 mcg/mL, so 0.1 mL measures 250 mcg. A correctly reconstituted GHK-Cu solution is clear; discard if it is cloudy or shows particulate.
Storage & stability
Store un-reconstituted GHK-Cu vials refrigerated and protected from light for long-term stability; the lyophilized form is robust and tolerates shipping. After reconstitution, refrigerate at 2-8C, keep away from light, and use within the typical research window of roughly two to four weeks. The benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water helps inhibit microbial growth across that period. Always label reconstituted vials with the concentration and date.
Common research pairings
In regenerative research GHK-Cu is sometimes paired with BPC-157 or TB-500 to model both structural and dermal repair.
How GHK-Cu compares
GHK-Cu targets skin, hair, and matrix research where BPC-157 and TB-500 target connective and muscle tissue, so it covers a distinct research niche.
Safety & research considerations
GHK-Cu is a research chemical not approved for human use. For laboratory research only.
Sourcing, purity & Certificate of Analysis
Every lot of GHK-Cu sold by Peptides Factory Direct is third-party tested to a 99%+ purity target, with identity confirmed by mass spectrometry and purity quantified by HPLC. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting these results is available on request and ties each vial to a tracked lot. Material ships nationwide to all 50 US states with cold-chain handling where appropriate and fast domestic dispatch. This documentation is what separates research-grade GHK-Cu from unverified material - quality is established before the vial ever reaches your lab.
How to order GHK-Cu for research
GHK-Cu can be ordered through the Peptides Factory Direct research portal as a one-time purchase or on a recurring research schedule (every 2 weeks, monthly, every 2 months, or every 3 months). Checkout requires confirming you are 21 or older, purchasing for laboratory research only, and that the product is not for human or animal consumption. Bulk and standing-order pricing is available - note it in your order. Open the order portal to view current research sizes and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is GHK-Cu researched for?
Skin and tissue regeneration, hair-follicle research, and antioxidant/anti-inflammatory models. Research use only.
What sizes are available?
50 mg and 100 mg vials, third-party tested, COA on request.
Is the injectable different from topical GHK-Cu?
Yes - the injectable research form is handled and studied separately from cosmetic topical products.
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?
No, it is a research chemical and not for human consumption.
Related Healing & Recovery peptides
All Healing & Recovery peptides · Research guides & articles
External references: Peptides (Wikipedia) · U.S. Food and Drug Administration