KPV
Alpha-MSH C-Terminal Tripeptide Fragment
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the anti-inflammatory activity of the full α-MSH molecule while eliminating its melanogenic (skin-darkening) effects. Published research documents KPV's ability to modulate NF-κB signaling — the master inflammatory transcription factor — making it one of the most targeted anti-inflammatory peptides available for research.
Aliases: Alpha-MSH fragment, Lys-Pro-Val
- Research score
- 5/10
- Reality tier
- emerging
Mechanism
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH, amino acids 11-13). Despite its small size, it retains the full anti-inflammatory activity of the parent hormone. KPV is transported into intestinal epithelial cells via the peptide transporter PepT1, where it inhibits NF-kB activation, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-alpha, IL-8). It also modulates immune cell function (reduces nitric oxide production in microglia, inhibits TNF-alpha in astrocytes). In mouse colitis models, orally delivered KPV significantly reduced disease severity. Its small size gives it favorable pharmacokinetic properties including oral bioavailability (unusual for peptides).
Evidence note
Experimental — Strong preclinical data for colitis and inflammation. The PepT1 transport mechanism is well-published. No completed human RCTs. However, the alpha-MSH anti-inflammatory pathway is well-established in human physiology.
Reference data
- Molecular formula
- C16H30N4O4
- Sequence
Lys-Pro-Val
Studies
KPV tripeptide and anti-inflammatory activity
Demonstrated significant NF-κB inhibition and anti-inflammatory effects in intestinal epithelial cells.
Open source · PMID 15659637Alpha-MSH peptides in colitis treatment
KPV showed therapeutic potential in experimental colitis models.
Open source · PMID 17045821PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation
Orally delivered KPV decreases colitis severity in DSS- and TNBS-induced mouse models via PepT1-mediated transport and NF-kB inhibition.
Open source · PMID 18431481
FAQ
Can KPV be taken orally?
Yes. KPV is one of the few peptides with documented oral bioactivity. Published research shows it crosses the intestinal epithelium via PepT1 transport, making it uniquely suited for gut-targeted anti-inflammatory applications. Both injectable and oral forms are studied.
Does KPV cause tanning?
No. Unlike full-length α-MSH or Melanotan, KPV retains anti-inflammatory properties without melanogenic effects.
What is KPV?
A tripeptide (three amino acids: Lys-Pro-Val) derived from alpha-MSH, studied for anti-inflammatory properties.
For research and educational use only. This content is not medical advice.