What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a short peptide — three amino acids — that binds a copper ion. Researchers encountering the name for the first time usually want three things: what the molecule is, why the copper matters, and how to verify that a supplied vial actually contains it. This page answers those in order.
The molecule in plain terms
GHK stands for the amino acid sequence glycine-histidine-lysine. On its own it is a tripeptide found naturally in human plasma. The histidine side chain coordinates copper(II), and the resulting GHK-Cu complex is the form referenced in most published research. The complex is distinctly blue in solution, which is why reconstituted GHK-Cu looks different from the clear solutions of most other research peptides.
Why the copper matters
Copper is integral to the studied molecule rather than a carrier or filler. Assays that specify GHK-Cu are not interchangeable with assays using uncomplexed GHK, so protocol documentation should state which form is in use. Our catalog item is supplied as the copper-complexed form and the certificate identifies it as such.
How researchers verify what they received
Identity and purity are established analytically, not by appearance. Reverse-phase HPLC separates the target peptide from related impurities and reports purity as a percentage of total peak area; mass spectrometry confirms the molecular identity. A certificate is only meaningful if its lot number matches the vial in hand — a generic supplier-wide sample document does not describe your material.
What Amino Fuel Labs supplies
We supply GHK-Cu as a lyophilized research chemical, tested per lot at a third-party laboratory, with a lot-matched Certificate of Analysis available for every order. Orders ship from the United States, same business day when placed before our daily dispatch cutoff. Nothing in our catalog is for human or veterinary use; all material is for laboratory research only.
Related research peptides
Lab reports & documentation
Frequently asked questions
What is GHK-Cu used for?
It is studied in preclinical research on copper transport and extracellular matrix biology. It is not supplied for any human use.
Why is GHK-Cu blue?
The colour comes from the copper(II) ion coordinated by the peptide's histidine residue.
Is GHK-Cu a peptide or a mineral complex?
Both — it is a tripeptide bound to a copper ion, which is why it is described as a copper peptide.
How do I verify a GHK-Cu vial?
Match the lot number on the vial to the lot number on the Certificate of Analysis and check the reported HPLC purity.
Is it for human use?
No — laboratory research only.