GHK-Cu Peptide (Copper Tripeptide-1)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) complexed with copper(II). It appears in vendor listings and literature under several spellings — GHK-Cu, GHK Cu, GHKCu, copper peptide, and copper tripeptide-1 — all referring to the same sequence. This page summarises what the compound is and how Amino Fuel Labs documents each lot.
What GHK-Cu is
The GHK sequence is a three-amino-acid peptide (Gly-His-Lys) first isolated from human plasma. Its histidine residue binds copper(II) with high affinity, producing the blue-coloured GHK-Cu complex. In published preclinical literature the complex is studied for its role in copper transport, extracellular matrix signalling, and skin and connective-tissue models. Amino Fuel Labs supplies GHK-Cu strictly as a laboratory research chemical.
GHK-Cu, GHK Cu, GHKCu — the same compound
Spelling varies widely across suppliers and published abstracts. GHK-Cu, GHK Cu, GHKCu, GHK copper peptide, and copper tripeptide-1 are all names for the same copper-bound tripeptide. When comparing suppliers, the useful comparison is not the spelling but the documentation: measured purity, the analytical method used, and whether the certificate matches the lot number printed on the vial you receive.
Why researchers use a copper-bound form
The copper ion is not an additive; it is part of the molecule's studied identity. Free GHK and the GHK-Cu complex behave differently in laboratory assays, so protocols generally specify which form is required. Our catalog item is the copper-complexed form, supplied lyophilized, with the complex identity confirmed on the certificate.
Purity, COA, and handling
Each GHK-Cu lot is analysed by reverse-phase HPLC at an independent laboratory, with mass spectrometry confirmation where appropriate. The Certificate of Analysis records identity, lot number, appearance, test date, and measured purity, and the lot number on the certificate matches the vial. Vials ship lyophilized from the United States with same-day dispatch before the daily cutoff. Sold for laboratory research only.
Related research peptides
Lab reports & documentation
Frequently asked questions
What does GHK-Cu stand for?
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper(II) — also written GHK Cu, GHKCu, or copper tripeptide-1.
Is GHKCu the same as GHK-Cu?
Yes. GHKCu, GHK Cu and GHK-Cu are alternate spellings of the same copper-bound tripeptide.
Is your GHK-Cu third-party tested?
Yes — every lot is analysed by an independent laboratory by reverse-phase HPLC and released with a lot-matched COA.
How is GHK-Cu shipped and stored?
It ships lyophilized from the US; store per the guidance printed on the lot certificate.
Can GHK-Cu be used on people?
No. It is supplied for laboratory research only.