KPV: Structure, Research Overview and Specifications
KPV is a tripeptide made of lysine, proline and valine (Lys-Pro-Val). It corresponds to the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and is studied for its anti-inflammatory signalling, particularly in models of intestinal and skin inflammation. This page summarises its chemistry, the published research and the specifications of the material we supply.
For in vitro research use only. Not for human or animal use. Nothing on this page is medical advice.
What is KPV?
KPV is one of the smallest biologically active peptides studied in inflammation research. It is a fragment of alpha-MSH, a hormone best known for its role in pigmentation. Unlike the full hormone, KPV is studied mainly for its effects on inflammatory signalling inside cells, including in the lining of the gut and in skin cells.
Because it is so small, KPV is used in research on peptide transport across cell membranes, particularly through the intestinal peptide transporter PepT1.
Chemical data
| Name | KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) |
|---|---|
| Sequence | L-Lysyl-L-prolyl-L-valine (alpha-MSH 11–13) |
| Length | 3 amino acids (tripeptide) |
| Molecular formula | C16H30N4O4 |
| Molecular weight | ≈ 342.4 g/mol |
| CAS number | 67727-97-3 |
| Appearance | White lyophilised powder |
| Available sizes | KPV 10mg |
Origin: alpha-MSH
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone is a 13-amino-acid peptide derived from the precursor protein pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). It acts on melanocortin receptors and has well-documented anti-inflammatory actions in addition to its role in pigmentation.
Researchers found that much of the anti-inflammatory activity of alpha-MSH could be reproduced by its C-terminal tripeptide, Lys-Pro-Val. This led to KPV being studied in its own right as a minimal anti-inflammatory motif.
Proposed mechanisms studied
- PepT1 transport. KPV is taken up into intestinal epithelial and immune cells by the di/tripeptide transporter PepT1, which is increased in inflamed gut tissue.
- NF-κB and MAPK signalling. Once inside cells, KPV has been reported to reduce activation of the NF-κB and MAPK inflammatory pathways and lower pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
- Beyond melanocortin receptors. Studies in mice lacking functional MC1R signalling reported anti-inflammatory effects, suggesting KPV does not rely solely on this receptor.
- Oxidative stress. Recent work in skin cells describes reduced oxidative stress alongside reduced inflammatory signalling.
What the published research shows
Intestinal inflammation models
A 2008 study in Gastroenterology (Dalmasso et al.) showed that KPV is transported into intestinal epithelial cells by PepT1 and reduced inflammation in mouse models of colitis. A separate 2008 study in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (Kannengiesser et al.) also reported anti-inflammatory effects of KPV in murine colitis models.
Skin cell research
In vitro studies in keratinocytes have examined KPV’s effects on inflammatory and oxidative-stress pathways triggered by environmental stressors, including fine dust particles.
Delivery research
Because of its small size and PepT1 uptake, KPV has also been used in research on targeted delivery systems, such as nanoparticle formulations directed to inflamed intestinal tissue.
Limitations of the evidence
- Almost all published data come from cell-culture and rodent models.
- There are no published large, controlled human trials of KPV.
- Effects seen in specific disease models cannot be assumed to apply more widely.
Regulatory status
KPV is not a licensed medicine in the UK and has not been approved by the MHRA, FDA or EMA. Sterling Research supplies KPV only as a research reagent for in vitro laboratory use. It must not be used in humans or animals.
Storage and handling in the lab
- Store lyophilised powder at −20 °C, sealed and protected from light and moisture.
- Let the vial reach room temperature before opening to limit condensation.
- Prepare solutions to your laboratory’s validated protocols, with appropriate PPE and aseptic technique.
- Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles of solutions. Aliquot where your protocol allows.
Quality
Every batch of KPV we supply is independently tested by Janoshik for purity and identity before it is released for sale.
Related research compounds
Frequently asked questions
What does KPV stand for?
KPV is the one-letter amino-acid code for its sequence: lysine (K), proline (P) and valine (V).
Where does KPV come from?
KPV corresponds to the last three amino acids (positions 11–13) of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a 13-amino-acid peptide hormone.
How is KPV different from alpha-MSH?
Alpha-MSH is a 13-amino-acid hormone that acts on melanocortin receptors, including those involved in pigmentation. KPV is only its C-terminal tripeptide and is studied mainly for anti-inflammatory signalling rather than pigmentation.
Is KPV approved as a medicine?
No. KPV is not a licensed medicine in the UK and has not been approved by the MHRA, FDA or EMA. It is supplied for in vitro research only.
Is KPV in the KLOW blend?
Yes. Our KLOW research blend combines GHK-Cu, BPC-157, TB-500 and KPV.
References
- Dalmasso G, et al. PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology. 2008;134(1):166–178. PubMed 18061177
- Kannengiesser K, et al. Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2008. PubMed 18092346
- KPV tripeptide. Overview and chemical identifiers
This page is for scientific information only. Sterling Research Group Ltd supplies KPV strictly for in vitro laboratory research. Not for human or animal use, and not for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.