AHK-CU Raws

Description

Research area: Hair follicle and dermal papilla research

Product Description

AHK-Cu is a synthetic copper-binding tripeptide composed of alanine, histidine, and lysine (Ala-His-Lys) chelated to a copper(II) ion, also designated copper tripeptide-3. The peptide coordinates the copper ion through its nitrogen atoms, forming a stable complex that acts as a delivery vehicle for bioavailable copper to target tissues. Supplied here as a raw bulk powder, it is distinguished from the more widely known GHK-Cu by its selective activity in hair-follicle biology rather than general wound repair. It has been characterized in ex vivo human hair-follicle and dermal papilla cell studies since a landmark 2007 report in Archives of Pharmacal Research.

Mechanism & Research Context

In in-vitro and ex vivo models, AHK-Cu promotes proliferation of dermal papilla cells, the signaling hub of the hair follicle, and reduces their apoptosis by shifting the Bcl-2/Bax ratio toward survival. Research indicates it modulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) expression along with TGF-beta signaling, stimulating elongation of cultured human hair follicles and supporting the anagen (growth) phase of the follicle cycle.

Research Applications

• Dermal papilla cell proliferation and apoptosis assays
• Ex vivo human hair-follicle elongation studies
• VEGF and KGF growth-factor expression research
• Copper-delivery and collagen-synthesis investigations in dermal models
• Comparative copper-peptide studies versus GHK-Cu

Storage & Handling

• Store sealed vials in a cool, dark place for short-term storage and frozen for long-term storage.
• After reconstitution, refrigerate and protect from light and heat.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles; handle using standard laboratory safety and aseptic technique.

Product Specifications

• Compound class: Copper-complexed tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys; copper tripeptide-3)
• Form: Raw powder
• Purity: ≥ 99% (HPLC verified)
• Appearance: Blue to blue-green powder (copper complex)
• Third-party tested: Yes — Certificate of Analysis (COA) on this product page

Quality & Third-Party Testing

Every batch of AHK-CU Raws is independently third-party tested in the USA for identity and purity, with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) available on this product page.

Compliance Notice

AHK-CU Raws is for research use only. It is not intended for human or veterinary use and has not been evaluated by the FDA. By purchasing, the buyer represents and warrants that it will be used solely for in-vitro laboratory research.