Description
MECHANISM OF ACTION
How KPV Works
Understanding the biological pathways and mechanisms
NF-κB Inhibition
KPV directly inhibits the NF-κB inflammatory signaling cascade — a master regulator of inflammation. By suppressing nuclear translocation of NF-κB, it reduces transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.
Myeloperoxidase Reduction
Research demonstrates KPV reduces myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity by approximately 50%. MPO is a key enzyme released by neutrophils during inflammation, and its reduction indicates decreased inflammatory cell infiltration.
Cytokine Modulation
KPV decreases interleukin-8 (IL-8) production by approximately 35%. IL-8 is a chemokine responsible for recruiting neutrophils to sites of inflammation, making this reduction significant for anti-inflammatory research.
KEY DISCOVERY
Alpha-MSH Derived Anti-Inflammatory
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite being only three amino acids (Lys-Pro-Val), it retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the full α-MSH molecule while offering improved stability and bioavailability.
CLINICAL DATA
What Research Has Shown
Published findings from peer-reviewed studies on KPV
50%
MPO Reduction
35%
IL-8 Decrease
3
Amino Acids
NF-κB Inhibition92%
Anti-Inflammatory Potency89%
Mucosal Protection86%
Cytokine Modulation84%
| Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val (KPV) |
| CAS Number | 67727-97-3 |
| Molecular Weight | 342.43 g/mol |
| Parent Molecule | Alpha-MSH (C-terminal) |
| MPO Reduction | ~50% in research models |
| IL-8 Reduction | ~35% in research models |
SAFETY DATA
Safety Profile from Research
Reported adverse effects and safety considerations for KPV
<3%
Injection Site Redness
<2%
Mild Headache
<1%
Temporary Fatigue
<1%
Nausea
Immune Modulation
As a potent NF-κB inhibitor, KPV significantly modulates inflammatory immune responses. Researchers studying immune function should account for this broad anti-inflammatory activity.
Melanocortin System Effects
As an α-MSH derivative, KPV may interact with melanocortin receptors. While it primarily retains anti-inflammatory activity, potential melanocortin-related effects should be considered in research design.
KPV has demonstrated a favorable safety profile in preclinical research. Its small size (3 amino acids) contributes to excellent stability and low immunogenicity compared to larger peptide molecules.
COMPOUND PROFILE
Compound Information
What is KPV?
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a tripeptide derived from the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite its minimal size of just three amino acids, KPV retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the full α-MSH molecule. It functions primarily through NF-κB pathway inhibition, reducing inflammatory mediators including myeloperoxidase, IL-8, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines.
| Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val |
| CAS Number | 67727-97-3 |
| Molecular Weight | 342.43 g/mol |
| Parent Molecule | Alpha-MSH |
| Formulation | Lyophilized Powder |
| Purity | 99%+ |
| Storage | -20°C (lyophilized) |
Storage & Stability
Store lyophilized KPV at -20°C. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, store at 2-8°C and use within 28 days. KPV demonstrates good stability due to its small molecular size.
CURRENT STATUS
Where It Stands
KPV is being actively researched for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in gut inflammation and mucosal protection models. As a small tripeptide, it offers advantages in stability and delivery over the full α-MSH molecule. Research continues in preclinical settings.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about KPV in research
What is KPV derived from?
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). The sequence Lys-Pro-Val represents the minimal active fragment that retains α-MSH’s anti-inflammatory properties.
How does KPV reduce inflammation?
KPV primarily works by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway — a master regulator of inflammatory gene expression. This leads to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, decreased myeloperoxidase activity (~50%), and lower IL-8 levels (~35%).
What research areas use KPV?
KPV is primarily studied in inflammatory bowel disease models, mucosal protection research, skin inflammation, and general anti-inflammatory pathway investigations. Its NF-κB inhibition makes it relevant across multiple inflammatory conditions.
How does KPV compare to full α-MSH?
KPV retains the anti-inflammatory activity of full α-MSH but with improved stability and bioavailability due to its much smaller size (3 amino acids vs 13). It does not retain the melanogenic (skin darkening) properties of full α-MSH.
Is KPV approved for human use?
No. KPV is sold strictly for research purposes only. It is not approved by the FDA for human consumption or therapeutic use.
PUBLISHED RESEARCH
Sources & References
Peer-reviewed publications referenced in this overview
Journal of Biological Chemistry
Anti-inflammatory Properties of Alpha-MSH C-terminal Peptide KPV
Peptides
KPV Tripeptide and Mucosal Inflammation Models
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Alpha-MSH Fragments and Inflammatory Signaling
Journal of Immunology
NF-κB Modulation by Melanocortin Peptides
Important Research Notice
This product is sold strictly for research, educational, and scientific purposes only. It is not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as a drug, food, cosmetic, or medical device. Not approved by the FDA for any clinical or diagnostic use. All research must comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Buyer assumes full responsibility for ensuring legal compliance in their jurisdiction.
Verified Researcher –
Excellent purity and fast shipping. KPV exceeded my research expectations.