Research Comparison

BPC-157 vs GHK-Cu: Molecular Comparison of Two Research Peptides

BPC-157 and GHK-Cu are structurally distinct peptides that have been investigated in different research contexts. BPC-157 is a 15-amino-acid synthetic peptide derived from gastric juice protein, while GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified in human plasma. This comparison examines their molecular differences and published research profiles.

Property
BPC-157
GHK-Cu
Amino Acids
15
3 (+ Cu²⁺ ion)
Molecular Weight
1,419.53 Da
403.93 Da
Origin
Human gastric juice protein
Human plasma
CAS Number
137525-51-0
49557-75-7
Metal Cofactor
None
Copper (Cu²⁺)
Form
Lyophilized powder
Lyophilized powder
Storage
-20°C
-20°C

Buy BPC-157

BPC-157

From $64.99

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GHK-Cu

From $49.99

Molecular Properties

BPC-157 (MW 1419.53 Da) is a pentadecapeptide with the sequence Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val. It lacks metal cofactors and derives stability from its high proline content.

GHK-Cu (MW 403.93 Da) is a tripeptide consisting of Gly-His-Lys complexed with a copper(II) ion. The copper coordination is essential to its molecular activity. Plasma levels of GHK-Cu have been observed to decline with age, from approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.

Published Research

BPC-157 has been studied primarily in animal models of gastrointestinal, tendon, and muscle tissue repair. Chang et al. (2011, PMID: 21030672) examined its effects on tendon fibroblast migration via the FAK-paxillin pathway in vitro.

GHK-Cu research has examined collagen synthesis, wound healing, and gene expression modulation. Pickart & Margolina (2018, PMID: 29986520) reviewed data suggesting GHK-Cu modulates expression of over 4,000 human genes. Maquart et al. (1988, PMID: 3169264) observed collagen synthesis stimulation at picomolar concentrations in fibroblast models.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between BPC-157 and GHK-Cu?+
BPC-157 is a 15-amino-acid peptide from gastric juice protein (MW 1419 Da), while GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide from plasma (MW 404 Da). They have different sizes, origins, and molecular mechanisms.
Are BPC-157 and GHK-Cu the same type of compound?+
Both are peptides, but they differ significantly. BPC-157 is a larger synthetic peptide without metal cofactors. GHK-Cu requires a copper ion for its molecular structure and is one of the smallest biologically active peptides studied.

Research Use Only

FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Products sold by Healthy Aminos are intended strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. Not for human or animal consumption. Not FDA approved. By purchasing from Healthy Aminos, the buyer acknowledges that these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All products are sold as reference standards and research chemicals only.