AHK-Cu, also known as Copper Peptide, is a naturally occurring copper complex that consists of three amino acids – Alanine, Histidine, and Lysine. Due to its biological activity, this peptide is widely recognized for its potential in skin and hair care applications.
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Research application of AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu has been the subject of various research studies due to its potential applications in skincare, hair growth, and biomedical fields.
Hair Growth: AHK-Cu has been studied for its potential application in promoting hair growth. An analog of GHK-Cu, another peptide used for hair growth, AHK-Cu has shown promising effects in stimulating hair growth in dermal papilla cells and human hair follicles ex vivo. Another study reported similar findings, indicating that AHK-Cu can stimulate hair growth at concentrations ranging from 10-12 - 10-9M.
Skin Care: AHK-Cu has been applied in skincare products, particularly anti-aging treatments. One study showcased the use of AHK-Cu in an eye lift product that reduced the appearance of periorbital wrinkles. Copper peptides like AHK-Cu have also been found to regulate copper and modify the expression of numerous antioxidant genes, potentially preventing oxidative stress in the skin.
Biomedical Applications: AHK-Cu has been used as a probe for visually detecting Cu2+, Hg2+, and S2− in aqueous media, living cells, and paper test strips5. This suggests potential applications of AHK-Cu in biochemistry and molecular biology.
AHK-Cu Sequence
- Sequence: ALA-HIS-LYS-CU
- C15H25CuN6O4
- Molecular weight: 416.9 g/mol
What is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu or Copper Tripeptide-1, is a compound formed by the combination of a copper ion (Cu2+) and a tripeptide composed of the amino acids Alanine (A), Histidine (H) and Lysine (K).
The copper ion in this complex gives it its biological activity. Copper is an essential micronutrient that plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including iron metabolism, antioxidant defense, and connective tissue development.
The tripeptide component (AHK) acts as a chelator, stabilizing the copper ion and facilitating its uptake and use by the body's cells.
Together, the AHK and Cu components form a stable, bioactive compound with potential benefits in various applications, including skin care, hair growth, and wound healing.
What Does AHK-Cu Do?
AHK-Cu has been studied for its potential applications in various areas:
Hair Growth: AHK-Cu has been found to promote hair growth. Research suggests that it not only improves blood flow to existing hair follicles but can also stimulate the growth of new ones. It has been proposed that this stimulatory effect on human hair follicles might be due to increased stimulation.
Skin Health: AHK-Cu can increase the number of fibroblasts, which produce collagen and other fibers, contributing to skin health. It's also suggested to have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, which can help maintain skin integrity.
Production of VEGF: AHK-Cu boosts the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a signal protein that stimulates the formation of blood vessels. This could potentially aid in wound healing and tissue regeneration.
Bone Health and Performance: Some sources suggest that AHK-Cu can support bone health and improve performance in strength-related activities.
AHK-Cu Research and Wrinkle Reduction
Copper Tripeptide-1 is a compound that has been widely studied for its potential anti-aging benefits, particularly in the area of wrinkle reduction. Here's a summary of the findings:
Stimulation of Collagen Production: AHK-Cu has been found to stimulate collagen production in skin cells. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, leading to the formation of wrinkles. By boosting collagen production, AHK-Cu may help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture.
Antioxidant Activity: AHK-Cu also exhibits antioxidant activity, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This could slow the aging process and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Promotion of Glycosaminoglycan Synthesis: AHK-Cu can promote the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as hyaluronic acid. These substances help to maintain skin hydration and plumpness, which can help to smooth out wrinkles.
Wound Healing Properties: AHK-Cu is known for its wound-healing properties, which can be beneficial for reducing the appearance of scars and improving overall skin texture.
AHK-Cu Research and Hair Loss
Promotion of Hair Growth: Ex vivo studies have evaluated the effects of AHK-Cu on human hair growth and cultured dermal papilla cells. These studies suggest that AHK-Cu can stimulate hair growth.
Stimulation of Blood Vessel Growth: AHK-Cu is believed to promote the growth of blood vessels by stimulating the secretion of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). This increased blood flow can deliver more nutrients to the hair follicles, potentially supporting hair growth.
Suppression of DHT: Some animal and lab studies suggest that AHK-Cu may suppress Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair thinning and loss.
Increased Hair Follicle Size: AHK-Cu is suggested to increase hair follicle size, which is necessary for new hair growth.
Potential in Aging and Hair Loss Treatment: Scientists have extensively studied AHK-Cu peptides in animal models. It has shown immense potential to treat hair loss and skin aging.
Resources:
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/2/3/236
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