Copper Peptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper, GHK-Cu)
Description
Copper Peptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper, GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring tripeptide complex with a molecular weight of 401.9 g/mol (C₁₄H₂₄CuN₆O₄). This sky-blue colored compound consists of three key components:
1. The peptide sequence Gly-His-Lys
2. Copper(II) ion in square planar coordination
3. Two water molecules completing the coordination sphere
Production Methods
1. Chemical Synthesis (Primary Method):
Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) using Fmoc chemistry
Copper chelation under controlled pH (7.0-7.5)
Typical purity: ≥98% by HPLC
Yield: 70-85% after purification
2. Fermentation-Derived:
Recombinant E. coli expression systems
Lower yield but higher stereochemical purity
Requires additional copper-loading steps
Molecular Characteristics
Copper content: 15.8±0.5% (w/w)
UV-Vis spectrum: λmax 252 nm (peptide), 600 nm (d-d transition)
Stability constants: log K = 16.5 for Cu²⁺ binding
Isoelectric point: 6.8
Physicochemical Properties
Solubility Profile:
Water: ≥100 mg/mL (25°C)
Ethanol: <1 mg/mL
Propylene glycol: 15 mg/mL
Stability Parameters:
pH stability: 5.5-7.5 (optimal)
Thermal stability: Degrades above 80°C
Photostability: Sensitive to UV light
Technical Specifications (Cosmetic Grade)
Appearance: Light blue powder
Purity: ≥95% (HPLC)
Heavy metals (excluding Cu): ≤10 ppm
Residual solvents: ≤50 ppm
Endotoxin: ≤10 EU/mg
Water content: ≤5%
Benefits
1. Formulation Stability: Maintains integrity in aqueous systems
2. Color Indicator: Visible blue hue aids in quality control
3. pH Adaptability: Stable in cosmetic pH ranges
4. Synergistic Potential: Enhances other active ingredient performance
Applications
1. Advanced Skin Care:
Anti-aging serums and creams
Wound healing formulations
Collagen-boosting treatments
2. Hair Care Systems:
Hair growth stimulants
Scalp revitalization products
Anti-hair loss solutions
3. Medical Aesthetics:
Post-procedure recovery creams
Scar reduction therapies
Dermatological preparations
4. Specialty Cosmetics:
Eye contour treatments
Neck and décolletage creams
Luxury skincare lines
Product Processing












