Description

GHK-Cu – Research Capsules for Laboratory Purposes (2 mg / capsule, 60 count)

Synthetic biomimetic copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys:Cu2+) in a solid analytical matrix for in vitro research on extracellular matrix remodeling, collagen and elastin synthesis, TGF-β pathway signaling, angiogenesis, and cytoprotective cascades

Overview & Mechanism of Action (In Vitro)

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine in a stable chelation complex with copper Cu2+) is a synthetic bioactive tripeptide modeled after an endogenous plasma bioregulator. In cellular biology, regenerative matrix research, and dermal biochemistry, it serves as a primary reference standard for mapping gene expression networks, connective tissue turnover, and antioxidant enzymatic activation in cell culture models:

• Stimulation of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Synthesis: Upregulates mRNA expression and de novo production of procollagen type I, collagen type III, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid) in primary human dermal fibroblasts in vitro.
• Modulation of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) & TIMPs: Restores enzymatic equilibrium by balancing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-2) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1, TIMP-2), facilitating physiological ECM remodeling.
• Induction of Angiogenic Pathways (VEGF & bFGF): Promotes microvascular endothelial cell migration and capillary-like tube formation in vitro via transcriptional upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF).
• Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Cytoprotection: Suppresses the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, protecting cellular structures from reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro.

Technical & Chemical Specifications

• Classification: Copper Tripeptide Chelate / Biomimetic Standard in Solid Matrix (RUO)
• Amino Acid Sequence: Gly-His-Lys (Cu2+ complex)
• Chemical Name: Copper(2+); 2-[[2-(2-aminoacetyl)amino-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoyl]amino]hexanoate
• Molecular Formula: C14H22CuN6O4
• Molecular Weight: 401.91 g/mol (free chelate base)
• Active Content: 2 mg per capsule (±2%)
• Packaging Unit: 60 research capsules in a laboratory container with integrated desiccant
• Form: Solid reagent matrix / encapsulated standard (characteristic pale blue copper complex coloration)
• Component Identification: Verified via Analytical HPLC and Mass Spectrometry (MS)
• Recommended Reconstitution Protocol: Capsule contents are intended for dissolution in sterile laboratory buffers (e.g., sterile PBS pH 7.2–7.4) or sterile deionized water to prepare calibrated working solutions for in vitro cell culture assays.
• Storage Conditions: Store at 15–25 °C in a dry, dark environment in the tightly sealed original container with desiccant. For long-term archiving of analytical standards, storage at -20 °C is recommended.

Scientific References & Literature

• Pickart, L., et al. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in light of the new gene data. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018.
• Pickart, L., & Margolina, A. GHK peptide as a natural modulator of gene expression and tissue remodeling in vitro and cellular assays. Biomolecules, 2020.
• Maquart, F. X., et al. In vitro regulation of dermal fibroblast collagen synthesis and matrix remodeling by the tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu. FEBS Letters, 1993.
• Gruenwald, J., et al. The effect of copper peptide GHK-Cu on extracellular matrix remodeling and growth factor signaling in human endothelial cells. Microvascular Research, 2020.

Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Purchase

This product is classified and supplied strictly for laboratory, scientific, and in vitro research purposes only (Research Use Only – RUO). Neither the compound nor the capsule matrix is a drug, medicine, dietary supplement, cosmetic product, or substance intended for human or veterinary consumption, oral ingestion, direct administration, injection, or diagnostic procedures.

By placing an order, the purchaser explicitly confirms that they are at least 18 years of age, possess the requisite professional qualifications and laboratory equipment to safely handle research materials, and are fully conversant with all relevant safety protocols for managing research substances. The seller assumes no liability for any use contrary to these terms.