AHK-Cu is a tripeptide–copper(II) complex with the sequence Ala-His-Lys coordinated to a cupric ion. It belongs to the same family of low-molecular-weight copper-binding peptides as GHK-Cu, differing ...
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Certificate of Analysis included with every order.
Technical Specifications
Purity
≥99%
Form
Lyophilized powder
Storage
-20°C
Sequence
Ala-His-Lys·Cu²⁺
About This Peptide
AHK-Cu is a tripeptide–copper(II) complex with the sequence Ala-His-Lys coordinated to a cupric ion. It belongs to the same family of low-molecular-weight copper-binding peptides as GHK-Cu, differing in the N-terminal residue — alanine in place of glycine — a substitution that alters the geometry of the coordination site and, in experimental systems, the peptide's interaction profile.
Research interest in AHK-Cu centers on its role as a defined copper(II) delivery vehicle in cell culture. Like other copper-binding tripeptides, it is studied in the context of extracellular matrix biology, copper homeostasis and follicular research models, where controlled copper presentation is required rather than free cupric salts.
AHK-Cu is supplied by Pepitiva Biolabs as a lyophilized powder of ≥99% purity, intended for dissolution and use under controlled laboratory conditions. Recommended storage at −20 °C preserves the integrity of both the peptide backbone and the copper coordination complex. For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Research Applications
≥99% purity. Lyophilized powder. Storage: -20°C. For research purposes only.
Mechanism of Action
AHK-Cu is understood to act primarily as a copper(II) chelate: the tripeptide backbone binds the cupric ion through the histidine imidazole nitrogen and the terminal amine, forming a stable complex that modulates the bioavailability and redox behaviour of Cu²⁺ in experimental systems. This coordination is what distinguishes it from free copper salts, which are poorly tolerated and redox-active in culture.
In vitro work with copper tripeptides has examined effects on copper-dependent enzymes — lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase, cytochrome c oxidase — and on extracellular matrix gene expression, including collagen and MMP/TIMP balance in fibroblast models. Because AHK-Cu differs from GHK-Cu only at the N-terminal residue, it is frequently used alongside it as a structural comparator to probe how the coordination site influences these responses.
Research Applications
AHK-Cu (≥99% purity, lyophilized) is used in in vitro and preclinical research where controlled copper(II) presentation is required. The following represent documented areas of laboratory use. For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Copper homeostasis research: Applied as a defined copper(II) delivery vehicle to study intracellular copper trafficking and cuproenzyme activity.
Extracellular matrix studies: Used to examine collagen synthesis and MMP/TIMP balance in fibroblast and keratinocyte culture models.
Follicular and dermal research models: Employed in cell culture systems investigating copper peptide effects on proliferation and matrix deposition.
Structure–activity comparison: Run in parallel with GHK-Cu as a single-residue structural comparator to probe the contribution of the N-terminal residue.
Biomaterial functionalization: Incorporated into hydrogel or polymer matrices to assess how copper peptide presentation affects cell attachment and gene expression in tissue engineering research.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain peptide integrity and ensure reliable research results. All Pepitiva Biolabs peptides are supplied as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, which provides excellent long-term stability when stored correctly. Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage or 2-8°C for short-term use. Once reconstituted, peptide solutions should be stored at 2-8°C and used within the timeframe specified in the product documentation. Always use sterile bacteriostatic water for reconstitution and handle peptides in a clean laboratory environment to prevent contamination. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as thermal stress can cause peptide degradation and loss of biological activity.
Quality Control & Certification
This product is manufactured under strict quality control protocols and has been verified through comprehensive analytical testing. Each batch undergoes reverse-phase HPLC analysis for purity determination and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) for molecular identity confirmation. A detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available for download, documenting purity percentage, molecular weight verification, appearance, and recommended storage conditions. Pepitiva Biolabs maintains batch-level traceability from synthesis through delivery, ensuring complete transparency and quality assurance for your research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product approved for human use?
No. This product is intended exclusively for in vitro scientific research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human or veterinary use, not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, and should not be administered to humans or animals under any circumstances.
How do I reconstitute this peptide?
Add sterile bacteriostatic water slowly to the vial, directing the stream against the glass wall rather than directly onto the lyophilized powder. Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved — do not shake vigorously. The recommended reconstitution volume depends on your desired concentration. Refer to the product documentation for specific guidance.
Can I get a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis is included with every order and is also available for download from the product page. The COA documents HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity confirmation, batch number, production date, and storage recommendations.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
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GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu, commonly designated as the copper peptide GHK-Cu (CAS 49557-75-7; internal code GHK-Cu (Copp...
