GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (Gly-His-Lys). The free tripeptide has a molecular weight of about 340 g/mol. The copper complex has the formula C14H22CuN6O4. Orion Peptides supplies GHK-Cu as a lyophilized research compound for laboratory and analytical use only. It is not for human or veterinary use.
Two molecules in one name
A GHK-Cu vial should contain the peptide and bound copper in the right proportion. A certificate that confirms only the tripeptide doesn’t tell you whether the copper complex is complete. A credible GHK-Cu COA shows:
| Check | Why it matters for GHK-Cu |
|---|---|
| HPLC purity + chromatogram | Separates GHK from related impurities |
| Identity test | Confirms the compound is GHK-Cu (mass spec is the strongest method) |
| Copper content or complex confirmation | Shows the copper is actually bound, not just the free peptide |
| Net content (mg) | Confirms vial fill |
| Lab + report date | Lets you confirm the report |
A visual cue: the copper complex usually gives the lyophilized powder a blue tint. That’s a quick check, not a substitute for the certificate.
GHK-Cu vs AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu swaps glycine for alanine. It is a different molecule with its own certificate, and the two aren’t interchangeable in a study. See GHK-Cu vs AHK-Cu and BPC-157 vs GHK-Cu.
Orion Peptides GHK-Cu
Every Orion Peptides batch is tested by a third-party laboratory, Hyte Research Division. Certificates are on our COA Verification page.
Store sealed, cold and protected from light. The copper complex is light-sensitive.
Full certificate walkthrough: How to Read a Peptide COA and our 7-point COA credibility check.
Shop: Orion Peptides GHK-Cu
FAQ
What does GHK stand for? Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, the three amino acids in the peptide.
Why is my GHK-Cu blue? The bound copper(II) ion gives the complex its colour.
Is Orion Peptides GHK-Cu for cosmetic or human use? No. It is supplied for laboratory research only.
Relevant resources
- ISO/IEC 17025:2017 — competence of testing laboratories
- PepIndex — September 2026 analysis of 664 peptide certificates
All Orion Peptides compounds are for research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.
