AHK-Cu
Ala-His-Lys-Cu / Copper Peptide AHK
AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide Ala-His-Lys-Cu) is a copper-binding tripeptide variant consisting of alanine-histidine-lysine complexed with a copper(II) ion, studied for its potential role in hair growth stimulation and skin rejuvenation. It is structurally related to the more extensively studied GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) but with alanine substituted for glycine at the first position, potentially altering its receptor interactions and biological activity profile. Research applications focus primarily on dermal papilla cell stimulation, wound healing, and cosmetic anti-aging formulations.
Mechanism of Action
Synthetic copper-binding tripeptide analog of GHK-Cu with alanine substituted for glycine. Stimulates collagen synthesis and dermal fibroblast proliferation. May offer enhanced stability over GHK-Cu while maintaining copper-dependent tissue remodeling activity.
Research Protocols
For research purposes only. Not medical advice.
Research protocols mirror GHK-Cu. Topical: 1-2% concentration. Injectable protocols not well-established. Primarily studied in cosmetic formulations.
Research Notes
Clinical Research Status
AHK-Cu has significantly less published clinical research compared to its well-studied relative GHK-Cu, with most available data coming from in vitro cell culture studies and cosmetic ingredient characterization rather than formal clinical trials. Patent literature and cosmetic industry research reports suggest efficacy in hair follicle stimulation, but independent peer-reviewed clinical validation remains limited. It is available as a cosmetic ingredient and in topical hair growth formulations, but has not been evaluated by the FDA for any medical indication.
Key Published Findings
In vitro studies on human dermal papilla cells demonstrate that AHK-Cu stimulates proliferation and increases production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other growth factors associated with hair follicle angiogenesis. Comparative studies suggest AHK-Cu may have superior hair growth stimulation activity compared to GHK-Cu in certain cell culture models, possibly due to different binding dynamics at the cellular level. The copper ion is essential for activity, participating in extracellular matrix remodeling through lysyl oxidase activation and superoxide dismutase function.
Safety Profile
Copper peptides generally have an excellent topical safety profile, with AHK-Cu showing no significant irritation or sensitization in available patch testing data. Systemic copper toxicity is not a concern at concentrations used in topical formulations (typically 0.001-0.1%). As with all copper peptides, high concentrations may produce a blue-green discoloration of skin or products, and interactions with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) can cause oxidative degradation of both compounds when co-formulated.
Comparison to Related Compounds
GHK-Cu is the most extensively studied copper peptide with over 100 published papers documenting wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects, while AHK-Cu has a much smaller research base. The alanine substitution in AHK-Cu may provide different tissue specificity or potency for hair follicle applications compared to GHK-Cu's broader tissue effects. Both copper peptides differ fundamentally from minoxidil (a potassium channel opener) and finasteride (a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor), working through growth factor and extracellular matrix pathways rather than vascular or hormonal mechanisms.
Community Observations
Hair loss communities have shown growing interest in AHK-Cu as an addition to topical hair growth regimens, often combined with GHK-Cu, minoxidil, and microneedling protocols. Users report that results are gradual and modest, typically requiring 3-6 months of consistent application to assess efficacy. The peptide is available from specialized cosmetic ingredient suppliers and is increasingly appearing in commercial hair growth serums, though concentration standardization varies significantly between products.
Half-Life
~30-60 minutes
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water (BAC)
Storage
Lyophilized
Refrigerate 2-8C up to 12 months.
Reconstituted
Refrigerate 2-8C. Use within 14 days.
US Legal Status
Also Known As
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