AHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of the synthetic tripeptide L-alanyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (AHK). It is a structural analog of GHK-Cu in which the N-terminal glycine is replaced by alanine, preserving the Xaa-His-Lys arrangement that forms the copper-binding site. The free peptide AHK has the formula C15H26N6O4.

Peptides bearing an N-terminal Xaa-His sequence bind Cu(II) through the terminal amine, a deprotonated backbone amide nitrogen and the histidine imidazole nitrogen, a coordination mode characterized in detail for GHK and related peptides. In vitro work on AHK-Cu has examined cultured dermal papilla cells, where the complex was reported to increase cell proliferation and to raise the Bcl-2/Bax expression ratio.

AHK-Cu is cited in copper–peptide coordination chemistry, comparative structure–activity studies alongside GHK-Cu, and dermal papilla cell-culture research. It is also studied as a cosmetic peptide ingredient in formulation science, where copper-complex stability and compatibility with other ingredients are evaluated. Published literature specific to AHK-Cu is limited compared with GHK-Cu.

Research use only. This material is sold for in-vitro laboratory research and development purposes exclusively. It is not a drug, food, or dietary supplement, has not been evaluated by the FDA, and must not be used in humans or animals.