At a glance
- Class
- Copper-binding tripeptide
- Receptor targets
- Matrix and collagen pathways (mechanism debated)
- Length
- 3 amino acids
- Molecular mass
- ≈ 404 Da (as the copper complex)
- Origin
- Naturally occurring, produced synthetically
- Research area
- Skin & matrix biology
- Also known as
- Copper tripeptide-1, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
What GHK-Cu is
GHK is a tripeptide (glycine, histidine, lysine) that forms a stable complex with copper. It is found naturally in human plasma, saliva and urine, with reported levels that fall with age.
Copper tripeptide-1 is a recognised cosmetic ingredient. The research peptide is studied in cell culture for extracellular-matrix remodelling, collagen synthesis and related signalling.
What the research literature studies
- Collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblast cultures
- Copper binding and the chemistry of the GHK-copper complex
- Gene-expression screens in cell-based models
Evidence rating: 2/5
Mostly animal and in vitro. Cell-culture work and small cosmetic studies. Little controlled data beyond topical use. See our methodology for how levels are assigned.
- Many claims originate from a small number of research groups.
- Copper chemistry can complicate analytical work, so quote the vendor's CoA method.
Regulatory status
Copper tripeptide-1 is used as a cosmetic ingredient. It is not an approved medicine, and research-grade material is not a cosmetic or a medicine. Nordapep supplies it for in vitro laboratory research only.
Reviewed November 2026.
GHK-Cu at Nordapep: sizes and price per mg
Every size, its price and the cost per milligram, so you can choose the best-value vial for your protocol.
| Size | Price | Per mg | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70mg | £92.65 | £1.32 | In stock |
| Size | Price | Per mg | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100mg | £110.21 | £1.10 | In stock |
| Size | Price | Per mg | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100mg | £59.32 | £0.59 | In stock |
Live Nordapep prices, refreshed hourly. Prices in GBP, excluding shipping; see Nordapep for the current price.
Compare GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu FAQ
Why is GHK-Cu blue?
The copper(II) complex is naturally blue to blue-violet in solution and as a powder, which is a quick visual sign that copper is present.
Where can I buy GHK-Cu for research?
GHK-Cu is listed at Nordapep with a batch-matched Certificate of Analysis, from £59.32. It is supplied for in vitro laboratory research only.
Is GHK-Cu approved?
Copper tripeptide-1 is used as a cosmetic ingredient. It is not an approved medicine, and research-grade material is not a cosmetic or a medicine. Nordapep supplies it for in vitro laboratory research only.
Key terms for GHK-Cu
Cite this page
peptide.wiki. (2026). GHK-Cu: research peptide profile. peptide.wiki. https://www.peptide.wiki/peptides/ghk-cu