AHK-Cu (200mg)

Description

AHK-Cu Peptide (Copper Tripeptide-1, Ala-His-Lys-Cu)

Overview
AHK-Cu, also referred to as Copper Tripeptide-1 or ALA-HIS-LYS-CU, is a tripeptide consisting of the amino acids alanine, histidine, and lysine, with a copper ion coordinated through various binding sites on these amino acids. Naturally present in the bloodstream, AHK-Cu is considered a biologically active molecule involved in cellular processes such as growth, tissue repair, and apoptosis regulation. Research suggests that AHK-Cu exhibits notable effects on fibroblasts, the cells responsible for maintaining and synthesizing the extracellular matrix (ECM), including collagen and elastin, which are essential for tissue structure, elasticity, and integrity.

The copper ion in AHK-Cu is suggested to play a critical role in enzymatic reactions involved in collagen and elastin synthesis, and it may also confer antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress and enhancing cellular resilience.

Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula: C15H25CuN6O4

• Molecular Weight: 416.9 g/mol

• Other Names: ALA-HIS-LYS-CU, L-Alanyl-κN-L-histidyl-κN,κN3-L-lysinato(2-)]copper Monohydrochloride

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Mechanisms of Action and Biological Activities

1. Antioxidative Potential
AHK-Cu is reported to exhibit strong antioxidant activity, which is believed to contribute to cellular protection, tissue repair, and hair follicle growth. By scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulating redox-sensitive pathways, AHK-Cu may reduce cellular stress, thereby promoting fibroblast proliferation and survival, essential for collagen production and overall skin integrity.

2. Hair Growth and Follicle Development
AHK-Cu has been extensively researched for its role in hair follicle regeneration. Studies suggest that the peptide stimulates dermal papilla cells (DPCs)—specialized fibroblasts that regulate hair follicle growth—and enhances the elongation of hair follicles. The peptide may also reduce apoptosis in DPCs by increasing the Bcl-2/Bax ratio and lowering levels of apoptotic markers such as cleaved caspase-3 and PARP, favoring cell survival.

Additionally, AHK-Cu is thought to upregulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), promoting angiogenesis and nutrient delivery to hair follicles, while downregulating transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1), which may reduce inhibitory signals on hair growth and fibroblast activity. These combined effects suggest potential applications for treating alopecia and hair thinning.

3. Wound Healing and Tissue Repair
AHK-Cu is suggested to enhance fibroblast migration and proliferation, critical for wound closure and tissue regeneration. By stimulating ECM production, particularly collagen type I, the peptide contributes to restoring structural integrity in damaged skin. Studies report that fibroblasts exposed to AHK-Cu showed increased cell viability, proliferation, and collagen synthesis, indicating potential for accelerated wound healing and reduced scarring.

4. Skin Health and Anti-Aging Effects
In addition to promoting tissue repair, AHK-Cu is posited to improve skin tissue integrity by enhancing fibroblast function and ECM production. By supporting collagen and elastin synthesis, it may improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall resilience. Laboratory studies indicate that exposure to AHK-Cu can increase collagen type I production up to threefold, suggesting a potential role in anti-aging skincare formulations.

5. Angiogenic Activity
AHK-Cu may also indirectly support angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels, by stimulating VEGF production in fibroblasts. This effect enhances nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues, contributing to tissue repair, hair follicle health, and overall cellular metabolism.

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Research and Clinical Applications

• Hair regeneration: Potential to promote hair follicle elongation and DPC proliferation, useful in alopecia and thinning hair studies.

• Wound healing: May enhance fibroblast activity, collagen deposition, and extracellular matrix remodeling.

• Skin rejuvenation: Supports ECM production, potentially reducing signs of skin aging.

• Antioxidant support: Protects cells from oxidative damage and supports tissue recovery.

Important Note: AHK-Cu peptide is intended for research and laboratory purposes only. All studies mentioned are preclinical or in vitro, and human clinical applications require further investigation.

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References

1. Kapoor R, Shome D, Vadera S, Kumar V, Ram MS. QR678 & QR678 Neo Hair Growth Formulations: A Cellular Toxicity & Animal Efficacy Study. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020;8(8):e2843. doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000002843

2. AHK-Cu, ChemBK. https://www.chembk.com/en/chem/AHK-Cu

3. Kecel-Gunduza, S., Kocb, E., Bicaka, B., Kokcub, Y., Ozela, A. E., & Akyuzc, S. In Silico Analysis for Characterizing the Structure and Binding Properties of Ala-His-Lys (AHK) Tripeptide. The Online Journal of Science and Technology, 2020;10(3).

4. Research on AHK-Cu peptide’s effects on DPC proliferation, VEGF/TGF-β1 modulation, and hair follicle elongation, 2020.