Tripeptide-1 Acetate (GHK HOAc) – CAS 72957-37-0
Tripeptide-1 HOAc is the acetate salt form of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, the same GHK tripeptide recognised for decades as one of the most potent naturally occurring collagen signal peptides. With a molecular weight of 341.4 Da, this three-amino-acid fragment was originally identified in human serum where its concentration declines measurably with age. The acetate counter-ion offers formulators an alternative salt form with slightly different solubility behaviour compared to the hydrochloride version.
Mechanism of Action
Tripeptide-1 acts as a matrikine, a peptide fragment released during extracellular matrix turnover that instructs fibroblasts to synthesise new structural proteins. Upon reaching the dermis, GHK binds to fibroblast membrane receptors and activates transcription of collagen types I and III, elastin, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans. It simultaneously regulates metalloproteinase expression to prevent excessive matrix degradation. This balanced remodelling signal distinguishes GHK from simple collagen-boosting ingredients. The acetate form ships copper-free, giving formulators the flexibility to complex with Cu2+ ions at their facility or deploy the peptide independently.
Acetate vs. Hydrochloride Salt
Both salt forms deliver identical GHK peptide activity. The acetate counter-ion produces a slightly higher solution pH compared to the HCl form, which can be advantageous in formulations already buffered near pH 6.0-6.5 where less acid neutralisation is required. Some formulators prefer the acetate form for copper complexation protocols because acetic acid is a weaker acid that minimises pH drift during the chelation step. From a regulatory standpoint, both forms fall under the same INCI name Tripeptide-1.
Formulation Guidelines
Use Tripeptide-1 HOAc at 50-500 ppm in the aqueous phase, maintaining pH 5.0-7.0. The peptide dissolves easily in water and hydroglycolic blends. For on-site copper complexation, combine equimolar Cu(OAc)2 with the peptide in buffered solution at pH 5.5-6.5 and confirm the characteristic blue-violet shift spectrophotometrically. Process temperatures should stay below 40 degrees C. Avoid EDTA, citric acid at high levels, or other aggressive chelators that may strip copper from the complex after formation.
Applications
- Anti-aging serums and creams targeting firmness and elasticity loss
- Copper-peptide formulations when complexed with Cu2+ by the formulator
- Post-procedure barrier recovery products for sensitive or compromised skin
- Eye contour treatments for crepey, thinning periorbital skin
- Professional-grade ampoule concentrates for clinical aesthetics
Quality and Supply from TCS NEXUS S.L.
TCS NEXUS S.L. supplies Tripeptide-1 HOAc from Valencia, Spain with HPLC purity of 98% minimum. Each lot is accompanied by a certificate of analysis covering mass spectrometry identity, HPLC purity, peptide content, amino acid analysis, residual acetate, and microbial limits. We offer order quantities from development-scale milligrams through multi-kilogram production runs with rapid dispatch across the EU. Regulatory documentation supporting compliance with EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 is provided on request.
Storage
Store lyophilised Tripeptide-1 HOAc at -20 degrees C in sealed containers protected from moisture. Reconstituted solutions should be refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C and used within 3 months. Avoid prolonged UV exposure to prevent oxidation of the histidine residue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tripeptide-1 HOAc the same peptide as Tripeptide-1 HCl?
Yes. Both contain the identical GHK sequence. The only difference is the counter-ion: acetate versus hydrochloride. Biological activity, recommended use levels, and INCI classification are the same.
Can I make GHK-Cu from Tripeptide-1 HOAc?
Absolutely. Dissolve equimolar Tripeptide-1 HOAc and copper(II) acetate at pH 5.5-6.5 in buffered water. The solution should turn blue-violet, confirming successful chelation. Verify by UV-Vis at 600 nm.
What is the recommended use level?
50-500 ppm in the finished cosmetic product. Most commercial formulations target 100-200 ppm for a balance between measurable efficacy and cost efficiency.
Technical Support and Samples
Request COA documents, sample availability, or support for custom synthesis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide COA documents for Tripeptide-1 Acetate Supplier Europe?
Yes. Each lot can be supplied with a Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity data, and relevant quality-control results for technical review.
Are samples available for Tripeptide-1 Acetate Supplier Europe?
Yes. Sample availability can be confirmed for formulation screening and internal evaluation before a commercial order is placed.
What is the delivery lead time for Tripeptide-1 Acetate Supplier Europe?
For stocked material in Valencia, EU delivery is typically 5 to 7 business days. Final timing depends on destination and requested volume.
Do you also support custom synthesis and technical inquiries?
Yes. The team can help with custom synthesis, raw-material selection, technical documentation, and supply planning.