AHK-CU 100MG

Description

What is AHK-Cu?

AHK‑Cu is a tripeptide–copper complex (Ala‑His‑Lys coordinated with Cu(II)), structurally closely related to GHK‑Cu. In the cosmetic‑peptide literature it has been differentiated from GHK‑Cu for a more pronounced effect on hair follicle dermal‑papilla cells and VEGF expression in the hair matrix, making it a commonly researched cosmetic ingredient for hair‑loss topical formulations.

Mechanism of Action

• Copper chelator; delivers Cu(II) to cuproenzymes (lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase)
• Stimulates dermal‑papilla cell proliferation and VEGF expression in follicle models
• Extends anagen (active growth) phase in hair‑follicle organ culture
• Antioxidant via coupling with SOD cofactor delivery

Compound Properties

• Sequence (peptide): Ala‑His‑Lys (AHK)
• Molecular formula (peptide): C₁₅H₂₆N₆O₄
• Molecular weight: ~354.4 g/mol (peptide); ~417 g/mol as Cu complex
• Form: Lyophilized powder (blue/violet tint characteristic of Cu coordination)
• Unit size: 100 mg / vial
• Source: Solid‑phase peptide synthesis with post‑synthesis copper coordination; ≥98% purity by HPLC

Research‑Reference Dosing

Published research‑reference ranges:

• Pickart et al., various Experimental Gerontology and Int J Mol Sci: AHK‑Cu and GHK‑Cu comparative dermal‑papilla research.
• Pyo et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2007): topical AHK‑Cu in human hair‑follicle organ culture.
• Most research involves topical or follicle‑culture systems; no systemic human PK or efficacy data is published.

Research Findings

• Increased VEGF expression in dermal‑papilla cells (Pyo 2007)
• Extended anagen phase in ex‑vivo follicle cultures
• Used in cosmetic topical hair‑loss formulations as an active

Known Side Effects Reported in Research/Trials

• Topical: generally very well tolerated; rare mild irritation or contact dermatitis
• Characteristic blue/green solution color from Cu coordination is normal
• No systemic safety data from peer‑reviewed studies
• Theoretical copper overload with prolonged high‑dose use

Storage & Handling

• Lyophilized (unreconstituted) vials: store at −20°C long‑term; short‑term 2–8°C acceptable.
• After reconstitution with bacteriostatic or sterile water: store at 2–8°C; use within 14–28 days per standard peptide stability guidance.
• Protect from light, heat, and repeated freeze‑thaw cycles. Handle in a sterile laboratory environment.

Certificate of Analysis

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming identity and purity by HPLC / MS is available upon request. Contact Lonestar Peptides for lot‑specific documentation.

Summaries reference peer‑reviewed preclinical and clinical literature available as of early 2025. Newer findings may not be reflected. Researchers should consult current literature and conduct their own due diligence. Lonestar Peptides makes no claim of therapeutic benefit.