Important NoticeThis app is for educational purposes only. You must be 18+ to use it. We do not sell any peptides on this site.

Back to Library
Vial

Peptide Library / Detail

AHK-Cu

Copper peptide complexResearch use only

Half-life

Not well-characterized; topical applications show local tissue retention

Delivery

Topical application

Dosage

Research Use Only

All products listed are for laboratory research only — not for human consumption. By browsing, you acknowledge these terms.

Purchase

No purchase links available

Description

AHK-Cu is a synthetic tripeptide-copper complex consisting of the amino acid sequence Ala-His-Lys bound to a copper ion. It is studied primarily for its potential effects on hair growth and skin regeneration. The copper-peptide complex is believed to support tissue remodeling and cellular proliferation through various signaling pathways.

Usage

Typically applied topically in research settings at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 μM in hair growth studies. In vitro research protocols commonly use 1-5 μM concentrations for cell culture applications. Application frequency varies by formulation and research objective.

Mechanism of Action

AHK-Cu promotes hair growth through multiple pathways including stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, enhancement of dermal papilla cell proliferation, and modulation of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling. The copper ion component facilitates enzymatic activities involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and angiogenesis, while the tripeptide sequence provides cellular signaling functions.

Benefits(7)

  • Stimulates hair follicle growth and proliferation
  • Increases VEGF expression in dermal papilla cells
  • Enhances cellular proliferation in hair follicle structures
  • Supports angiogenesis around hair follicles
  • May improve hair density and thickness
  • Promotes extracellular matrix remodeling
  • Demonstrates low cytotoxicity in research models

Side Effects(5)

  • Potential skin irritation at application site
  • Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
  • Copper accumulation with excessive use
  • Mild erythema or redness
  • Localized pruritus or itching

AHK-Cu — frequently asked questions

  • What is AHK-Cu?

    AHK-Cu is a synthetic tripeptide-copper complex consisting of the amino acid sequence Ala-His-Lys bound to a copper ion. It is studied primarily for its potential effects on hair growth and skin regeneration. The copper-peptide complex is believed to support tissue remodeling and cellular proliferation through various signaling pathways.

  • What is the half-life of AHK-Cu?

    AHK-Cu has an approximate half-life of Not well-characterized; topical applications show local tissue retention. The half-life determines how often you need to inject to maintain steady blood levels — use the Peptides Calculator half-life calculator to plot your specific dosing schedule and see the decay curve.

  • How is AHK-Cu administered?

    AHK-Cu is typically delivered via topical application. The Peptides Calculator app helps you reconstitute the vial with bacteriostatic water, calculate your exact dose in syringe units, and track each injection.

  • How does AHK-Cu work?

    AHK-Cu promotes hair growth through multiple pathways including stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, enhancement of dermal papilla cell proliferation, and modulation of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling. The copper ion component facilitates enzymatic activities involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and angiogenesis, while the tripeptide sequence provides cellular signaling functions.

  • What are the researched benefits of AHK-Cu?

    Studied benefits of AHK-Cu include: Stimulates hair follicle growth and proliferation, Increases VEGF expression in dermal papilla cells, Enhances cellular proliferation in hair follicle structures, Supports angiogenesis around hair follicles, May improve hair density and thickness, Promotes extracellular matrix remodeling, Demonstrates low cytotoxicity in research models. These are research findings only — Peptides Calculator does not provide medical advice; consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol.

  • What are the side effects of AHK-Cu?

    Reported side effects of AHK-Cu include: Potential skin irritation at application site, Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, Copper accumulation with excessive use, Mild erythema or redness, Localized pruritus or itching. Always discuss potential side effects with a licensed healthcare provider before using any research peptide.

Related peptides

Other skin/hair compounds in the Peptides Calculator library.