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KPV

Lys-Pro-Val tripeptide (α-MSH C-terminal fragment)

Tripeptide derived from the C-terminus of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, studied for anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical models of skin and gut barrier biology.

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Molecular weight
342.44 Da
Sequence
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val)
Synonyms
α-MSH(11-13), Lysyl-prolyl-valine

What is KPV?

KPV is a synthetic tripeptide corresponding to the C-terminal three residues of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite its small size, KPV retains a substantial portion of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory activity in preclinical systems. It has been investigated as a research probe for melanocortin receptor-independent immunomodulation.

Mechanism of action (preclinical evidence)

KPV represents one of the most striking examples in peptide pharmacology of how a small terminal fragment can retain substantial biological activity of a larger parent molecule while operating through a distinct mechanism. Unlike full α-MSH, which signals primarily through G-protein-coupled melanocortin receptors (MC1R-MC5R), KPV appears to act intracellularly and largely receptor-independently. Published research describes KPV inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation and reducing IKKα/β kinase activity, which dampens pro-inflammatory transcription downstream. This intracellular mechanism is supported by experiments where MC receptor blockade does not abolish KPV's anti-inflammatory effects, suggesting bypass of canonical melanocortin signaling. KPV also affects mast cell biology: preclinical studies report reduction of FcεRI-mediated degranulation and decreased histamine + TNF-α release in mast cell cultures. In intestinal epithelial models, the peptide has been associated with strengthening of tight junctions (claudin/occludin upregulation), an effect that is particularly relevant for inflammatory bowel disease research. Some literature also suggests effects on NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and on Th17 differentiation. The combination of intracellular NF-κB modulation, mast cell stabilization, and epithelial barrier support gives KPV a distinctive 'broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory' research profile that is being explored in IBD, atopic dermatitis, and ulcerative inflammation models.

Research applications

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models in rodents
  • Atopic dermatitis and skin inflammation cell culture
  • Mast cell biology and degranulation studies
  • Intestinal epithelial barrier integrity research
  • Comparative studies with α-MSH and other melanocortin peptides

Storage and handling

Lyophilised KPV is stable at -20 °C in a sealed vial protected from light. Tripeptides are relatively stable in aqueous solution; aliquot reconstituted material to avoid freeze-thaw degradation.

Regulatory status

KPV is not an approved drug in any major regulatory framework. Supplied by Peptra Labs strictly for laboratory research.

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Frequently asked questions

What is KPV?+
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) corresponding to the C-terminal three residues of α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone). Despite its small size, KPV retains a substantial portion of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory activity in preclinical systems and is investigated as a research probe for melanocortin-receptor-independent immunomodulation.
How does KPV differ from α-MSH?+
Full α-MSH (13 amino acids) acts primarily through melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R). KPV - being just the C-terminal three residues - appears to bypass receptor-mediated effects and instead acts intracellularly, inhibiting NF-κB signaling and pro-inflammatory cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-6) directly within cells.
What conditions are studied with KPV in preclinical models?+
KPV research has focused on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models in rodents, atopic dermatitis and skin inflammation cell cultures, mast cell biology, intestinal barrier integrity studies, and comparison with full α-MSH and other melanocortin peptides.
Is KPV approved as a drug?+
No. KPV is not approved by FDA, EMA, or any other regulatory authority. It is supplied strictly as a research material for in-vitro and preclinical in-vivo studies.
How should KPV be stored and reconstituted?+
Lyophilized KPV is stable at -20°C in a sealed, light-protected vial. Tripeptides are relatively stable in aqueous solution, but aliquot reconstituted material to avoid freeze-thaw degradation. Use bacteriostatic water for multi-use vials; sterile water for single-use prep.

References

  1. Brzoska T, et al. α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone and related tripeptides: biochemistry, antiinflammatory and protective effects in vitro and in vivo. Endocr Rev. 2008;29(5):581-602.
  2. Kannengiesser K, et al. Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2008;14(3):324-331.

Last reviewed: 4 May 2026