KPV
KPV is a naturally occurring tripeptide derived from the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Despite its extremely small size — just three amino acids — KPV retains significant biological activity related to immune modulation and inflammatory pathway regulation. Its simplicity and stability make it an attractive research tool.
Research Overview
KPV was identified during research aimed at determining which portions of the larger alpha-MSH molecule were responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies published in journals including the Journal of Biological Chemistry, Peptides, and FEBS Letters have demonstrated that this minimal tripeptide fragment retains the anti-inflammatory signaling activity of the full-length alpha-MSH molecule. Research has examined its effects on NF-kB nuclear translocation, inflammatory cytokine production, and immune cell activation in various in vitro systems. The peptide's extremely small size gives it favorable stability and permeability characteristics compared to larger peptides, and researchers have investigated various delivery approaches including oral and topical routes in animal models. Studies of intestinal inflammation models in rodents have generated particular interest in the research community.
Key Research Findings
- 1
Inhibited NF-kB nuclear translocation in human intestinal epithelial cell cultures
- 2
Reduced inflammatory cytokine production (IL-8, TNF-alpha) in cell culture studies
- 3
Retained anti-inflammatory properties of full-length alpha-MSH despite being only 3 amino acids
- 4
Demonstrated oral bioavailability in rodent pharmacokinetic studies due to small size
- 5
Showed activity in intestinal inflammation models in mice (Dalmasso et al., 2008)
- 6
Investigated as a topical research compound due to favorable tissue penetration properties
Where to Buy KPV
Our top-ranked vendors for sourcing research-grade KPV. All vendors below publish third-party COAs and have been independently evaluated.
Molecular Details
- Sequence
- Lys-Pro-Val
- Molecular Weight
- 342.4 g/mol
- Molecular Formula
- C16H30N4O4
Storage & Handling
- Storage
- Store lyophilized at -20C. Highly stable due to small molecular weight.
- Solubility
- Freely soluble in water. One of the most stable research peptides due to small size.
Research Disclaimer: All information on this page is provided for educational and research purposes only. Products discussed are intended for laboratory research use exclusively. They are not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as dietary supplements. Always follow institutional guidelines and consult published peer-reviewed literature for research protocol development. Not for human consumption.