Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
AHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-3) is the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide Ala-His-Lys — a close structural analog of GHK-Cu in which the N-terminal glycine is replaced by alanine.
AHK-Cu Structure and Identifiers
| Name | AHK-Cu |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Copper tripeptide-3; Ala-His-Lys copper(II) |
| CAS number | 126828-32-8 (AHK peptide) |
| Molecular formula | C15H25CuN6O4 |
| Molecular weight | ≈416.9 g/mol |
| Sequence | Ala-His-Lys · Cu(II) |
| Form | Blue powder |
AHK-Cu vs GHK-Cu
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| N-terminal residue | Glycine | Alanine |
| Copper binding | His imidazole + N-terminal amine + amide N | Same motif |
| Common name | Copper tripeptide-1 | Copper tripeptide-3 |
Published In-Vitro Research Areas
- Dermal-papilla and fibroblast cell-culture studies
- Copper-peptide formulation and stability research
- Side-by-side comparison with GHK-Cu
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of AHK-Cu supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store lyophilized AHK-Cu at −20 °C, sealed, dry and protected from light. Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening and minimize freeze–thaw cycles. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Research materials referenced in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AHK-Cu available as raw powder?
Yes — both vial and 1 g raw-powder formats are available for laboratory formulation work.
Is AHK-Cu for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies AHK-Cu for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Hureau C, et al. X-ray and solution structures of Cu(II) GHK and Cu(II) DAHK complexes: influence on their redox properties. Chemistry. 2011;17(36):10151-60. PubMed 21780203 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
