Molecular data
| Molecular formula | C16H31N5O4 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 342.43 Da |
| Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val |
| Sequence length | 3 residues |
| Physical form | Lyophilized powder |
| Available sizes | 10mg |
How it works
Inflammatory Pathway Suppression
At nanomolar concentrations, lower NF-κB and MAP-kinase pathway activation is measured in vitro. NF-κB is a principal regulator of inflammatory gene expression, and reduced secretion of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β is recorded alongside.
- Inhibits NF-κB and MAP-kinase signaling at nanomolar levels
- Lower TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and other pro-inflammatory cytokines measured
- Acts on inflammatory output rather than on anti-inflammatory cytokines
Cellular Transport & Action
Research shows KPV is taken up by cells via the PepT1 di/tripeptide transporter, which is expressed on immune cells and intestinal epithelial cells. This transporter-mediated uptake allows KPV to act intracellularly on inflammatory signaling.
- Enters cells through the PepT1 peptide transporter
- PepT1 is expressed on immune and intestinal epithelial cells
- Enables intracellular modulation of inflammatory pathways
Melanocortin Fragment
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH 11–13). Most of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory activity has been attributed to this fragment, which also shows antimicrobial activity in vitro.
- C-terminal tripeptide of the melanocortin peptide α-MSH
- Carries much of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory activity
- Antimicrobial effects reported against S. aureus and C. albicans
What the research shows
Intestinal Inflammation Models
PepT1-mediated uptake of KPV was followed by lower intestinal inflammation scores in DSS- and TNBS-induced colitis models.
α-MSH Anti-Inflammatory Signaling
KPV is studied as the C-terminal tripeptide that carries much of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating activity.
Epithelial Wound Closure
In a rabbit corneal model, topical KPV produced complete re-epithelialization by 60 hours, with a mechanism that may involve nitric-oxide signaling.
Antimicrobial Activity
KPV shows antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans across a broad concentration range in published research.
Specification
| Chemical Name | KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) |
|---|---|
| Sequence | L-Lysyl-L-Prolyl-L-Valine (α-MSH 11–13) |
| Molecular Weight | 342.43 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₃₁N₅O₄ |
| Content | 10 mg per vial |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Testing | Third-party HPLC, Mass Spec, Endotoxin |
| Storage | -20°C for long-term stability |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
| COA | Included with every order |
Frequently asked questions
What is KPV?
KPV is a tripeptide composed of lysine, proline and valine. It is the C-terminal fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH 11–13), and much of α-MSH's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating activity has been attributed to this fragment.
How is KPV studied in inflammation models?
At nanomolar concentrations, KPV inhibits the NF-κB and MAP-kinase inflammatory signaling pathways. NF-κB is a master regulator of inflammatory gene expression, so suppressing it lowers production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in research models.
What is PepT1 and why does it matter for KPV?
PepT1 is a di/tripeptide transporter expressed on immune cells and intestinal epithelial cells. Research shows KPV enters cells through PepT1, which allows it to act intracellularly on inflammatory signaling — a mechanism considered central to its effects in intestinal-inflammation models.
What has been measured in colitis models?
In DSS- and TNBS-induced mouse colitis models, PepT1-mediated uptake of KPV was followed by lower intestinal inflammation scores and reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-γ.
Has KPV been tested in humans?
No. Despite roughly two decades of preclinical research across multiple organ systems, KPV has not completed human clinical trials. Research-grade KPV sold here is intended strictly for in vitro laboratory research and is not for human or veterinary use.
How should research-grade KPV be stored?
Lyophilized KPV should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture, to preserve peptide integrity.
For laboratory research use only. Not a drug, supplement, or medical product; not for human or animal use. All findings referenced are from published preclinical/laboratory research.