GHK-Cu vs BPC-157
Both studied in tissue repair contexts, but one works through matrix remodeling and copper delivery, the other through angiogenic signaling.
Tissue Repair
GHK-Cu
Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for extracellular matrix remodeling and gene expression modulation.
Tissue Repair
BPC-157
Synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from a gastric juice protein, widely studied for cytoprotection and angiogenic signaling.
Side by side
| Dimension | GHK-Cu | BPC-157 |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular weight A 3.5× difference in mass — these are not comparable on a milligram-for-milligram basis. | 400.9 g/mol | 1419.53 g/mol |
| Size class | small molecule / short peptide | short peptide |
| CAS number | 89030-95-5 | 137525-51-0 |
| Research area | repair | repair |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys · Cu(II) | Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val |
| Available sizes | 50mg, 100mg | 5mg, 10mg |
| Entry price | $39 | $39 |
| Cost per mg Cost per milligram differs by more than 3×. Compare against the concentrations your protocol actually requires, not the headline vial price. | $0.64 | $6.90 |
Mechanism
GHK-Cu
GHK is a tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) present in human plasma that forms a high-affinity complex with copper(II). Plasma concentration declines markedly with age, which is the observation that originally drove research interest. Gene expression work has reported that GHK-Cu modulates a large number of human genes, and it is among the better-characterized peptides in dermatological and matrix biology literature.
BPC-157
BPC-157 is a synthetic 15-amino-acid sequence corresponding to a partial fragment of body protection compound, a protein identified in human gastric juice. It is notably stable in gastric acid, a property unusual among peptides of comparable size and one that has made it a frequent subject of oral-administration studies in rodent models. The published literature is dominated by a single research group, which is a genuine methodological caveat worth noting when evaluating the evidence base.
Evidence quality
Mechanism is not the same as evidence. Where we have assessed the literature, the verdict is stated plainly.
GHK-Cu
Evidence base: coordination chemistry and matrix effects well characterized. Gene expression findings are broad and would benefit from independent replication with copper-only controls.
Full research reference →BPC-157
Evidence base: substantial volume, narrow provenance. Weight accordingly and prefer independently replicated findings where they exist.
Full research reference →Research applications
GHK-Cu
- Collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis assays
- Gene expression profiling in fibroblast cultures
- Metalloproteinase and antiprotease balance studies
- Copper transport and chelation research
BPC-157
- Angiogenesis and VEGFR2 signaling pathway studies
- Tendon and ligament fibroblast migration assays
- Gastrointestinal mucosal integrity research in rodent models
- Nitric oxide system interaction studies
Common questions
What is the difference between GHK-Cu and BPC-157?
GHK-Cu is naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for extracellular matrix remodeling and gene expression modulation. BPC-157 is synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from a gastric juice protein, widely studied for cytoprotection and angiogenic signaling. They differ in molecular weight (400.9 vs 1419.53 g/mol) and in the pathways they are studied against.
Which is more cost-effective per milligram, GHK-Cu or BPC-157?
GHK-Cu is lower at approximately $0.64 per milligram at its best tier, against $6.90 for the other. Cost per milligram is only meaningful relative to the concentrations a given protocol requires, since these compounds are not used at comparable masses.
Can GHK-Cu and BPC-157 be studied together?
Combination designs appear in the published literature for a number of these compounds. Whether it is appropriate for a given protocol depends entirely on the model and endpoint. We supply research compounds and do not provide protocol guidance — consult the primary literature for your specific model.
How should GHK-Cu and BPC-157 be stored?
Store lyophilized powder at -20°C protected from light. Characteristic blue coloration in solution is expected and indicates intact copper complexation. For BPC-157: Store lyophilized powder at -20°C protected from light. Reconstituted solution stable at 2-8°C for up to 30 days.
Which has the stronger evidence base?
GHK-Cu — Evidence base: coordination chemistry and matrix effects well characterized. Gene expression findings are broad and would benefit from independent replication with copper-only controls. BPC-157 — Evidence base: substantial volume, narrow provenance. Weight accordingly and prefer independently replicated findings where they exist.
All products are intended strictly for laboratory research use. Not for human or veterinary use. Not for diagnostic or therapeutic use. Not a drug, food, or cosmetic.
Comparison generated from NuVida Vital catalog data. Every specification is reconciled against the certificate of analysis for the shipped batch.