GHK-Cu vs NAD+
A side-by-side research comparison — classification, molecular weight, mechanism, and how each is verified. For laboratory research use only.
01At a Glance
| GHK-Cu | NAD+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Classification | Genomic | Mitochondrial |
| Molecular weight | 404.92 g/mol | 663.43 g/mol |
| Also known as | Copper tripeptide-1 | Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide |
| Purity spec | ≥99% HPLC | ≥99% HPLC |
| Verification | MZ Biolabs · 5-panel | MZ Biolabs · 5-panel |
| Use | Research Use Only | Research Use Only |
02How They Differ
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for gene expression and ECM remodeling.
GHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, a sequence found in human plasma. Research attributes much of its activity to copper-ion delivery and to broad modulation of gene expression — transcriptomic studies report changes across thousands of genes, many related to extracellular-matrix (ECM) remodeling and collagen synthesis.
NAD+
An essential redox coenzyme and sirtuin cofactor central to cellular energy research.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a fundamental coenzyme in redox reactions, cycling between NAD+ and NADH to shuttle electrons through central metabolism. It is the rate-limiting cofactor for the sirtuin family (SIRT1–7) of deacetylases studied in cellular-aging research.
Research framing only · No human-use claims
03Selecting for a Research Model
GHK-Cu (Genomic) and NAD+ (Mitochondrial) occupy different research categories, so the choice usually follows the pathway under study. Selection depends on the research question, model system, and endpoints. Both are supplied strictly for laboratory research and are not for human or veterinary use.
Whichever you select, every Ethos Bio lot is verified the same way — a five-point independent panel with a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis. See how we test →
04FAQ
What is the difference between GHK-Cu and NAD+?
GHK-Cu is classified as Genomic — A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for gene expression and ECM remodeling. NAD+ is classified as Mitochondrial — An essential redox coenzyme and sirtuin cofactor central to cellular energy research. They differ in molecular weight (GHK-Cu: 404.92 g/mol; NAD+: 663.43 g/mol). Both are for laboratory research use only.
What are the molecular weights of GHK-Cu and NAD+?
GHK-Cu: 404.92 g/mol. NAD+: 663.43 g/mol.
Are GHK-Cu and NAD+ in the same research class?
No — GHK-Cu is Genomic; NAD+ is Mitochondrial.
How are GHK-Cu and NAD+ tested?
Both are analyzed by an independent third-party laboratory (MZ Biolabs, Arizona) on a five-point panel — HPLC purity, mass-spec identity, endotoxin, heavy metals, and sterility — with a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis per lot.