KPV Peptide (10 mg)

Anti-Inflammatory Signaling Peptide Derived from α-MSH

KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a short bioactive tripeptide derived from the C-terminal sequence of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
Unlike the full α-MSH molecule, KPV lacks melanogenic activity and instead exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making it a valuable research peptide for studies involving skin inflammation, gut inflammation, epithelial barrier integrity, and immune signaling.

KPV has been extensively studied in cell culture and animal models for its ability to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines and restore tissue homeostasis.

Specifications

• Name: KPV

• Sequence: Lys-Pro-Val

• Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₂₉N₅O₅

• Molecular Weight: ~387.43 g/mol

• Class: Anti-inflammatory signaling peptide

• Origin: C-terminal fragment of α-MSH

Mechanism of Action & Anti-Inflammatory Signaling

KPV exerts its biological activity primarily through melanocortin-related anti-inflammatory pathways, without activating melanogenesis.

Experimental studies indicate that KPV:

• Inhibits NF-κB signaling, a central regulator of inflammation

• Reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8

• Modulates immune cell activation and cytokine release

• Supports epithelial barrier integrity

Unlike corticosteroids or systemic immunosuppressants, KPV demonstrates localized, targeted anti-inflammatory signaling in experimental models.

KPV and Skin Inflammation Research

KPV has been widely studied in dermatological research contexts:

• In keratinocyte and fibroblast models, KPV reduced inflammatory cytokine release following chemical or microbial stimulation

• In experimental dermatitis and colitis models, KPV improved tissue architecture and reduced inflammatory infiltrates

• Studies suggest KPV may help regulate inflammatory responses without impairing normal cellular turnover

These findings support KPV’s role as a research peptide for inflammatory skin conditions, barrier repair, and immune balance studies.

KPV and Gut / Epithelial Barrier Research

One of the most studied areas of KPV research is intestinal inflammation:

• In murine models of colitis, KPV significantly reduced disease severity, cytokine production, and epithelial damage

• KPV demonstrated the ability to restore tight junction integrity and reduce immune-mediated epithelial injury

• Unlike full α-MSH, KPV showed improved stability and targeted activity in gut tissue models

This has positioned KPV as a valuable tool in gastrointestinal and mucosal immunology research.

Immunomodulatory Properties

KPV does not act as a broad immunosuppressant. Instead, studies indicate it:

• Modulates excessive inflammatory signaling

• Helps normalize immune responses

• Preserves physiological immune defense mechanisms

This selective immunomodulation is one reason KPV continues to be explored as a next-generation anti-inflammatory research peptide.

Other Experimental Applications

• Cosmetic science research: inflammation control, redness reduction, skin barrier support

• Wound-healing environments: by limiting excessive inflammatory cascades

• Microbiome-associated inflammation models: interaction between epithelial cells and immune signaling

Research Use Only – Important Notice

This KPV (10 mg) product is supplied exclusively for laboratory research purposes.

• Not for human or veterinary use

• Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, or cosmetic application in humans

• Intended only for in vitro studies and controlled experimental animal models conducted by qualified professionals

All descriptions above summarize findings from preclinical and mechanistic studies and are provided strictly for educational and informational purposes.

References

1. Getting SJ et al. Anti-inflammatory effects of the melanocortin peptide KPV in models of inflammatory bowel disease. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 2003.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12522192/

2. Brzoska T et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of melanocortin peptides in skin inflammation. Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 2008.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18219282/

3. Kannengiesser C et al. KPV inhibits NF-κB activation and cytokine release in epithelial cells. Peptides. 2008.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18420342/

4. Catania A et al. The neuroimmunomodulatory role of melanocortins and their peptides. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences. 2010.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20045206/

5. Schauer E et al. Melanocortin peptides modulate inflammatory responses in keratinocytes. Endocrinology. 1994.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8037220/