Description
AHK-Cu – Pre-filled Laboratory Cartridge for In Vitro Research (100 mg / 3 ml)
Synthetic biomimetic copper tripeptide complex (L-alanyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II) / AHK-Cu) in a pre-formulated stabilized buffered solution for in vitro research on dermal papilla cell (DPC) proliferation, VEGF and FGF-7 expression upregulation, TGF- pathway inhibition, and hair follicle cell viability
Overview & Mechanism of Action (In Vitro)
AHK-Cu is a synthetic bioactive tripeptide chelated with divalent copper ions (), structurally related to endogenous GHK-Cu but featuring an alanine substitution that enhances affinity for follicular cell populations. In cell biology, experimental trichology, and tissue engineering, it serves as a specialized reference standard for investigating growth factor regulation, cell viability, and apoptotic cascades across dermal papilla cell models:
- Stimulation of Dermal Papilla Cell (DPC) Proliferation: In primary cultures of human dermal papilla cells, it induces mitotic activity and significantly enhances cell viability in vitro via the modulation of cyclin-dependent kinase pathways.
- Upregulation of Follicular Growth Factors (VEGF / FGF-7): Elevates gene transcription and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7 / KGF), which are critical for microvascular support and structural morphogenesis in vitro.
- Suppression of Apoptotic TGF- and DKK-1 Signaling: Attenuates the expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-) and Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1) in cells exposed to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or oxidative stress, preventing premature regression in cell culture models.
- Modulation of 5$\alpha$-Reductase and Antioxidant Defense: Demonstrates in vitro inhibitory modulation toward 5$\alpha$-reductase isoforms while attenuating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by enhancing endogenous enzymatic defense systems.
- Pre-formulated Format for Precise Laboratory Dispensing: The stabilized liquid formulation within a 3 ml cartridge eliminates manual reconstitution steps, preventing concentration errors and ensuring maximum reproducibility across automated micro-dispensing systems.
Technical & Chemical Specifications
- Classification: Copper Tripeptide Complex / Follicular Cell Modulator / Research Solution (RUO)
- Product Format: Pre-filled calibrated laboratory cartridge (3 ml volume)
- Compound Strength: 100 mg / 3 ml (approx. 33.33 mg/ml concentration)
- Amino Acid Sequence: Ala-His-Lys- (copper(II) L-alanyl-L-histidyl-L-lysinate)
- Molecular Formula:
- Molecular Weight:
- Form: Sterile stabilized characteristic blue solution / Ready-to-Use (RTU)
- Solution Matrix: Sterile buffered isotonic solution for laboratory use (pH-optimized, requires no reconstitution or dilution)
- Compatibility: Compatible with standard laboratory dispensing pens and micro-dispensers for 3 ml cartridges (dispensing pen/injector is not included in the package)
- Storage Conditions: Store at 2–8 °C in a dark, refrigerated environment. Do not freeze. Maintain standard laboratory cold-chain protocols to preserve compound stability.
Scientific References & Literature
- Pyo, H. K., et al. The effect of tripeptide-copper complex AHK-Cu on the growth of dermal papilla cells and hair follicle elongation in vitro. Archives of Pharmacal Research, 2007.
- Pickart, L., et al. Regenerative actions of copper peptides in cellular models: Differential mechanisms of GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu on extracellular remodeling and cell survival. BioMed Research International, 2012.
- Kang, Y. A., et al. Modulation of hair growth-related cytokine expression by synthetic copper tripeptides in cultured human dermal papilla cells. Journal of Dermatological Science, 2009.
- Lee, W. J., et al. Protective effects of Ala-His-Lys-Cu against oxidative stress and dihydrotestosterone-induced apoptosis in follicular cell models. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2016.
Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Purchase
This product is classified and supplied strictly for laboratory, scientific, and in vitro research purposes only (Research Use Only – RUO). The stabilized solution and mechanical cartridge are not drugs, medicines, hair-growth treatments, cosmetic formulations, dietary supplements, or medical devices, and are not intended for human or veterinary consumption, oral ingestion, direct administration, injection, or diagnostic procedures.
By placing an order, the purchaser explicitly confirms that they are at least 18 years of age, possess the requisite professional qualifications and laboratory infrastructure to safely handle research substances, and are fully conversant with all relevant laboratory safety protocols. The seller assumes no liability for any use contrary to these terms.




