What it is
GHK was isolated from human plasma in 1973. It binds copper(II) with high affinity, and the copper complex is the form most research uses. The same sequence occurs inside collagen.
What researchers study
- Studied in skin and wound research, including collagen and extracellular-matrix gene expression in fibroblasts.
- Widely used in cosmetic formulation research.
Specifications
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys · Cu(II) |
| Molecular formula | C14H24N6O4Formula and mass are for the GHK peptide; it is bound 1:1 to copper(II). |
| Molecular weight | 340.4 g/mol |
| PubChem | CID 71587328 |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Vial sizes | 100 mg |
| Storage | Unopened: 2 to 8 °C, away from light |
How each lot is tested
Samples from every lot go to an independent, ISO/IEC 17025 accredited lab. Its report covers three tests:
- Purity by reversed-phase HPLC: the main peak's share of the total peak area.
- Identity by mass spectrometry: the observed mass should match the expected 340.4 g/mol.
- Endotoxin, measured for every lot.
The lot number on your vial is the number on its report. How to check a certificate of analysis walks through what to look for.
The amount on the label is the weight of the powder. Besides the peptide it includes counter-ions and some water; Purity vs. peptide content explains the difference.
Storage and handling
Store unopened vials at 2 to 8 °C, away from light, as printed on the label. Let a cold vial reach room temperature before you open it, so moisture doesn't condense on the powder. More bench habits are in Handling.
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. This page describes the compound and published research on it. It is not a recommendation for any use.