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AHK-Cu and it’s Anti-Aging Properties
AHK-cu, often termed ‘copper AHK,’ is a peptide with an associative (chemically related to) copper ion attached to it. It is a dermal (endothelial) growth stimulant and anti-aging peptide. It is found in the bloodstreams of mammals and is vital in regulating the development, growth, and death of vascular endothelial cells—cells that line the inner wall of blood vessels. The mentioned effects of AHK-cu are because of its ability to enhance the production of a growth peptide termed the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF).
This peptide is of interest to researchers and is studied extensively because of its ability to improve hair growth and prevent aging effects on the skin. Due to its various effects on the skin, it is now being extensively investigated as an anti-aging agent.
According to research, the primary interest is AHK-cu’s effect on fibroblasts – cells responsible for the growth and maintenance of the extracellular matrix.
The Potential Benefits of AHK-cu (Topical)
The market value for hair loss and anti-aging products is worth trillions of dollars. Therefore, researchers keep digging in search of new ways to reverse the effects of aging and hair loss. A peptide without side effects would be as treasurable as gold with boundless potential in this terrain.
According to research, AHK-cu could be beneficial in the following areas:
● Hair Loss: AHK-cu impacts hair loss in two ways. First, it improves the growth of blood vessels by enhancing the secretion of VEGF. Second, it down-regulates the action of TGF beta-1. Blood vessels and enhanced blood flow to the scalp are necessary for supplying vital nutrients to hair follicles. AHK-cu’s research on animal models shows that its effects are not limited to the increase of blood flow to existing hair follicles, as it bolsters the growth of new hair follicles by promoting the growth of blood vessels.
Dihydrotestosterone is the hormone responsible for developing male characteristics and the uprise of male pattern baldness and thinning hair in both women and men as they age. The effects of DHT are via the action of TGF beta-1. Therefore, the down-regulation of TGF beta-1 can allow for the direct reduction of DHT by AHK-cu.
● Hair Growth Stimulation: Hair follicles go through three stages of development – anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen stage is the active stage of hair growth. This stage of development is notable via brisk division and differentiation. Research shows that AHK-cu can help hair follicles remain in the anagen stage and retain strands in the anagen stage for about 3-5 years.
● Reduction of Wrinkles and the Anti-aging effect: Copper peptides and copper are potent ancillaries in skin and sunscreen creams. AHK-cu research in animal models shows that it is a remarkable stimulant of collagen synthesis. Collagen has many benefits for the skin—it strengthens the skin and enhances its elasticity and hydration. These effects of collagen help reduce the emergence of lines and wrinkles. The key point is that AHK-cu can reduce the emergence of wrinkles in animal models.
The aging of the skin results in the rapid deterioration in the number of fibroblasts. This causes a reduction in the amount of elastin and collagen in the skin, allowing for the emergence of aging—characterized by saggy skin, wrinkles, crow’s feet, harsh texture, and tone.
The administration of AHK-cu can help counteract the aging signs by stimulating the growth and development of new fibroblasts. Through its effect on TGF beta-1 and VEGF, AHK-cu activates the replication and development of body cells termed fibroblasts. The abundance of fibroblasts in the skin will usher in an increase in collagen and elastin. AHK-cu, according to research, stirs up the production of Type 1 collagen by 300%.
Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing. Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law. All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.
Dr. Usman (BSc, MBBS, MaRCP) completed his studies in medicine at the Royal College of Physicians, London. He is an avid researcher with more than 30 publications in internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Usman has worked as a researcher and a medical consultant for reputable pharmaceutical companies such as Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi.