AHK-Cu — Copper Tripeptide Complex
Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine Cu(II) · 100mg Research Vial
Available Formats
Vial — Lyophilised powder vial offering full flexibility in reconstitution volume and concentration.
Cartridge (Reusable Pen) — Pre-filled replacement cartridge compatible with standard reusable research pens. Pen sold separately.
Disposable Pen — Fully pre-loaded, self-contained research pen. Ready to use directly from packaging.
Compound Overview
AHK-Cu (alanyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II) complex) is a synthetic tripeptide-copper chelate structurally related to the naturally occurring GHK-Cu complex, with the N-terminal glycine residue substituted for alanine. Like other tripeptide-copper chelates, AHK-Cu binds Cu(II) ions with high affinity at physiological pH, forming a stable 1:1 coordination complex.
AHK-Cu has been investigated in published research alongside related copper peptides for its role in follicular biology, extracellular matrix research, and copper-dependent enzyme studies.
Mechanism of Action
Research has identified several pathways associated with AHK-Cu activity in preclinical models:
Follicular & Dermal Papilla Research: In vitro studies have reported that AHK-Cu modulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and related angiogenic markers in cultured dermal papilla cells, alongside influences on hair follicle keratinocyte proliferation indices.
Copper Ion Delivery: As a tripeptide-copper chelate, AHK-Cu serves as a bioavailable copper carrier in cell culture systems. Copper is an essential cofactor for enzymes including lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and cytochrome c oxidase.
Extracellular Matrix Studies: Research has explored AHK-Cu in parallel with GHK-Cu for influences on collagen and proteoglycan expression in fibroblast cultures, contributing to comparative copper-peptide structure-activity data.
Published Research
Pyo HK et al. (2007) — Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 30(5): 834-839. Effects of tripeptide-copper complex on hair follicle cells in culture.
Pickart L, Margolina A (2018) — International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 19(7): 1987. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the context of related tripeptide-copper complexes.
Note: Citations are provided for reference purposes only. BioCompounds UK does not make therapeutic claims based on published research data.
Structural & Chemical Data
| Compound Class | Tripeptide-copper(II) chelate |
| CAS Number | 110590-65-3 |
| Sequence | Ala-His-Lys : Cu(II) (1:1) |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₅H₂₆CuN₆O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 418.95 g/mol |
| Purity | >99% verified by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilised powder (vial) / Pre-filled solution (cartridge & pen) |
| Quantity | 100mg per unit |
| Solubility | Sterile water / PBS |
| Origin | EU |
| LOT / Specimen No. | 06-26 |
| Storage (Dry) | -20°C |
| Storage (Reconstituted) | 2-8°C, use within 4 weeks |
Regulatory & Usage Notice
This product is supplied strictly as a research-grade reference compound for in-vitro laboratory investigation only. It is not approved, intended, or marketed for human or veterinary administration, diagnostic purposes, or therapeutic application. Purchasers must be qualified researchers aged 18+ and agree to handle all compounds in accordance with applicable regulations and good laboratory practice (GLP). BioCompounds UK makes no therapeutic claims regarding this or any compound in its catalogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu (Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper(II) tripeptide complex) is a copper-binding peptide structurally related to GHK-Cu. It substitutes alanine for glycine at the N-terminus. It is studied in hair-follicle, dermal, and copper-mediated tissue research models.
What is the purity of this peptide?
BioCompounds UK supplies HPLC-verified research-grade material. Selected batches undergo independent third-party analysis by Janoshik Analytical, with current published Certificates of Analysis available on our batch verification page when applicable.
What is the half-life of AHK-Cu?
Like other copper-binding tripeptides, AHK-Cu has a short systemic half-life but persistent local activity in research models. Research protocols typically use topical or localised administration.
How does AHK-Cu compare to GHK-Cu?
Both are copper tripeptides. GHK-Cu (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) has the most extensive research record across general tissue and dermal models. AHK-Cu (alanyl-histidyl-lysine) is more frequently investigated specifically in hair-follicle research. See our AHK-Cu guide.
How should this peptide be stored?
Storage depends on the format you have chosen:
- 100mg Vial (lyophilised powder): Store at -20°C in a sealed container, away from light and moisture. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C and use within approximately four weeks.
- 3ml Cartridge (for reusable pen): Store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C from arrival. Once opened, use within 3 months. Keep away from light.
- Disposable Ready-to-Use Pen: Store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C from arrival. Once opened, use within 3 months. Keep away from light.
Full details are in our Peptide Storage Guide.
What formats is this available in?
This product is available in three research formats: a 100mg lyophilised vial, a 3ml cartridge for reusable research pens, and a ready-to-use disposable pen. Vials offer the most flexibility in reconstitution; cartridges and pens are calibrated for our standard equipment.
How fast is UK delivery?
Orders are typically dispatched within 24 hours via Royal Mail Tracked 24. During busier periods dispatch may extend to 48 hours. Free shipping on UK orders over £100. Full details on our Postage Guidance page.
Is this product legal in the UK?
All BioCompounds UK products are sold strictly for in-vitro laboratory research by qualified researchers aged 18 or over. They are not approved or intended for human or veterinary consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic use. See our Terms of Purchase for full guidance.
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