KPV Tripeptide
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a tripeptide derived from alpha-MSH. It has been studied for its role in modulating inflammatory signaling pathways and mucosal immune responses in dermatological and gastrointestinal research.
≥98%
10mg
Lyophilized Powder
Store at -20°C. Protect from light and moisture.
Mechanism of Action
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It exerts anti-inflammatory effects primarily through inhibition of the NF-κB signaling cascade, reducing translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus and thereby suppressing transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Unlike full-length α-MSH, KPV lacks melanotropic activity, making it a valuable tool for studying isolated anti-inflammatory pathways.
Research Overview
KPV has emerged as a significant research tool for studying anti-inflammatory mechanisms independent of melanocortin-receptor-mediated pigmentation effects. The tripeptide retains the anti-inflammatory core of α-MSH while eliminating the pigmentation-inducing N-terminal sequence.
In murine models of colitis, KPV demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects through both systemic and local (oral/colonic) administration routes. A landmark 2008 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that KPV reduced colonic inflammation scores and suppressed NF-κB activation in intestinal epithelial cells.
Dermatological research has explored KPV's role in modulating skin inflammation, with studies demonstrating its ability to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production in keratinocytes and fibroblasts. The peptide's small size (3 amino acids) facilitates favorable pharmacokinetic properties including tissue penetration and stability.
Published Research
Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease
KPV showed significant anti-inflammatory effects in two murine colitis models through NF-κB inhibition and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression.
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and related tripeptides: biochemistry, inflammation, and beyond
KPV preserves anti-inflammatory activity of α-MSH while lacking pigmentary action, making it a targeted anti-inflammatory peptide for research.
Chemical Profile
| Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val (C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH, residues 11-13) |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₅ |
| Molecular Weight | 358.43 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 67727-97-3 |
| Half-Life | Relatively stable; small peptide size confers resistance to rapid enzymatic degradation |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and physiological buffers at research concentrations |
| Bioavailability | Orally active in research models; demonstrated efficacy via systemic and local routes |
Research Applications
References & Further Reading
- Alpha-MSH — Wikipedia— Wikipedia
- KPV Peptide — PubMed Search— PubMed
- Melanocortin anti-inflammatory — PMC Review— PMC / NIH
Research Use Only
This product is intended solely for laboratory research, analytical testing, and educational purposes. NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. NOT FOR MEDICAL, VETERINARY, OR DIAGNOSTIC USE. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA.
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