KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a neuropeptide with well-characterised immunomodulatory properties. This three-amino-acid sequence — lysine, proline, valine — retains the core anti-inflammatory activity of the full α-MSH molecule while offering improved plasma stability relative to the parent peptide. KPV exerts its effects primarily through the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) and direct inhibition of NF-κB signalling pathways, positioning it as a targeted anti-inflammatory research tool.
The peptide has been studied in the context of intestinal barrier function, cutaneous wound healing, and inflammatory cytokine modulation. Its tripeptide structure results in rapid plasma degradation; however, preclinical models using localised delivery (subcutaneous, intranasal, or topical formulations) have demonstrated measurable biological activity consistent with MC1R engagement.
Research Overview
KPV research spans multiple inflammatory and wound-healing models. Key findings from published studies:
- NF-κB inhibition: Catania et al. documented KPV's ability to suppress NF-κB activation and downstream pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), consistent with its MC1R-dependent mechanism.
- Intestinal barrier: Studies in colitis models demonstrate attenuation of mucosal inflammation and protection of epithelial tight junction integrity, suggesting potential applications in IBD research.
- Wound healing: Preclinical wound models show reduced inflammatory infiltration and accelerated tissue remodelling compared to untreated controls.
- MC1R signalling: KPV's biological activity depends on MC1R expression, consistent with its role as a natural α-MSH C-terminal fragment targeting the melanocortin anti-inflammatory pathway.
- Safety profile: Tripeptide structure (MW 342 g/mol) confers low immunogenicity; preclinical tolerance studies report a favourable safety profile at research doses.
Biochemical Properties
- Amino acid sequence: H-Lys-Pro-Val-OH
- Molecular formula: C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₄
- Molar mass: 342 g/mol
- Plasma half-life: ~15–30 min (tripeptide, rapidly degraded)
- CAS number: 54576-54-4
- Synonyms: Lys-Pro-Val, α-MSH(11-13), KPV tripeptide
Buy KPV at Studien Peptide
KPV is available as a 10 mg lyophilised powder vial for research use. Each vial is filled under sterile laboratory conditions and HPLC-analysed for purity.
All batches are HPLC-analysed with guaranteed purity of ≥99%. Quality assurance includes mass spectrometry for exact molecular weight confirmation and strict endotoxin testing. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is provided with every order.
Worldwide Shipping
Studien Peptide ships worldwide. Lyophilised KPV is temperature-stable in unreconstituted form, maintaining molecular integrity during international transit at ambient temperature. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, refrigerated storage at 2–8 °C is recommended. This product is for research use only (RUO) and is not intended for human or animal use.