GHK-Cu, a tripeptide with the amino acid sequence Gly-His-Lys, has a molecular formula of C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄Cu and a molar mass of approximately 340.82 g/mol. Research-grade GHK-Cu is typically provided with a purity of ≥98% as confirmed by HPLC and has a white to off-white appearance. For laboratory storage, it is recommended to keep GHK-Cu at -20°C to maintain its stability and prevent degradation.
Chemical Identity and Classification
GHK-Cu is a copper-bound tripeptide, consisting of the amino acids glycine, histidine, and lysine. Its chemical structure is characterized by the presence of a copper ion, which is coordinated to the histidine and lysine residues. This complex has been studied extensively in various laboratory settings, including in-vitro experiments and analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
Molecular and Structural Properties
The molecular structure of GHK-Cu is composed of a copper ion coordinated to the imidazole ring of histidine and the ε-amino group of lysine. This coordination is essential for the stability and activity of the complex. The molecular weight of GHK-Cu is approximately 340.82 g/mol, and its solubility in water is relatively high, making it suitable for in-vitro experiments.
Physical Characteristics
Research-grade GHK-Cu is typically provided as a white to off-white powder, with a purity of ≥98% as confirmed by HPLC. The powder is highly soluble in water and can be easily dissolved in various buffers and solvents for in-vitro experiments. The physical characteristics of GHK-Cu are summarized in the following table:
| Property |
Value |
| Molecular Formula |
C₁₄H₂₄N₆O₄Cu |
| Molar Mass |
approximately 340.82 g/mol |
| Purity |
≥98% (HPLC) |
| Apearance |
White to off-white powder |
| Solubility |
Highly soluble in water |
Purity and Quality Verification
The purity and quality of GHK-Cu can be verified using various analytical techniques, including HPLC, mass spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis is typically provided by reputable suppliers, such as research-grade compounds from Alpha Amino, to ensure the quality and consistency of the material. It is essential to select a supplier that provides transparent lot numbers and US-based sourcing to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the material.
Selecting and Verifying a Research-Grade Source
When selecting a research-grade source of GHK-Cu, it is crucial to verify the quality markers, including a per-lot Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity (commonly ≥98% for research-grade material), mass-spectrometry identity confirmation, transparent lot numbers, and US-based sourcing. Alpha Amino provides research-grade GHK-Cu with a per-lot Certificate of Analysis and US-based sourcing, ensuring the quality and consistency of the material. Researchers can visit the research-grade compounds page to learn more about the available products and their specifications.
Storage and Stability for Laboratory Handling
For laboratory storage, it is recommended to keep GHK-Cu at -20°C to maintain its stability and prevent degradation. The material should be handled using aseptic laboratory technique, and sterile transfer and pipetting techniques should be employed to prevent contamination. In-vitro stock solutions can be prepared by dissolving the GHK-Cu powder in a suitable buffer or solvent, such as water or PBS, and then aliquoting and storing the solutions at -20°C.
Frequently asked questions
What is the recommended storage temperature for GHK-Cu?
The recommended storage temperature for GHK-Cu is -20°C, which helps to maintain its stability and prevent degradation. It is essential to follow proper laboratory storage procedures to ensure the quality and consistency of the material.
How can I verify the purity and quality of GHK-Cu?
The purity and quality of GHK-Cu can be verified using various analytical techniques, including HPLC, mass spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis is typically provided by reputable suppliers to ensure the quality and consistency of the material.
What are the key factors to consider when selecting a research-grade source of GHK-Cu?
When selecting a research-grade source of GHK-Cu, it is crucial to verify the quality markers, including a per-lot Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity, mass-spectrometry identity confirmation, transparent lot numbers, and US-based sourcing. Researchers should also consider the reputation and reliability of the supplier, such as Alpha Amino, which provides research-grade GHK-Cu with a per-lot Certificate of Analysis and US-based sourcing.
How can I prepare in-vitro stock solutions of GHK-Cu?
In-vitro stock solutions of GHK-Cu can be prepared by dissolving the GHK-Cu powder in a suitable buffer or solvent, such as water or PBS, and then aliquoting and storing the solutions at -20°C. It is essential to follow proper laboratory handling and storage procedures to ensure the quality and consistency of the material.
What is the importance of using aseptic laboratory technique when handling GHK-Cu?
Using aseptic laboratory technique when handling GHK-Cu is crucial to prevent contamination and ensure the quality and consistency of the material. Sterile transfer and pipetting techniques should be employed to handle the material, and proper laboratory storage procedures should be followed to maintain its stability and prevent degradation.
Alpha Amino products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption.
