Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 3 amino acids · Kupfer-Peptid
Sequence
Ala-His-Lys (AHK) · Cu²⁺
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (alanine-histidine-lysine) and belongs to the family of cosmetic copper peptides, similar to the better-known GHK-Cu.
- The bound copper ion is considered functionally relevant.
- In preclinical investigations AHK-Cu has been described mainly in the context of hair-follicle stimulation and promotion of dermal cells.
- Use is predominantly topical/cosmetic.
Research status
- AHK-Cu has been investigated mainly in cell-culture and preclinical models.
- An in vitro study describes an effect of tripeptide-copper complexes on hair growth.
- Controlled human clinical studies are rare; the evidence base is overall thin and mostly preclinical.
- AHK-Cu is used primarily as a cosmetic ingredient.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01Thin, mostly preclinical evidence base
- 02Skin irritation or contact allergy possible with topical use
- 03Copper accumulation theoretically conceivable with extensive/long-term use
- 04Product quality varies greatly depending on formulation
Frequently asked questions
What is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (alanine-histidine-lysine) and belongs to the family of cosmetic copper peptides, similar to the better-known GHK-Cu.
What type of peptide is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu belongs to the Copper peptide class.
Is AHK-Cu legal in Germany?
AHK-Cu is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy AHK-Cu?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. AHK-Cu is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is AHK-Cu banned in sport (WADA)?
AHK-Cu is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of AHK-Cu?
Documented risks include: Thin, mostly preclinical evidence base; Skin irritation or contact allergy possible with topical use. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is AHK-Cu?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 1 study is cited on this page.
Which peptides are related to AHK-Cu?
Closely related entries: GHK-Cu. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
unclassifiedCanada
unclassifiedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 1 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature.
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 30 May 2026
Legal assessment
AHK-Cu is not an approved medicine but is used as a cosmetic ingredient. Cosmetic products are governed by cosmetics regulation. Not on the WADA Prohibited List.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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