KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine)
KPV | Alpha-MSH(11-13) | Lys-Pro-Val
Mechanism of Action
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide (amino acids 11-13) of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Despite being the smallest anti-inflammatory fragment of alpha-MSH, KPV retains potent anti-inflammatory activity through a unique mechanism that does not require melanocortin receptor binding. This distinguishes it from full-length alpha-MSH and melanotan peptides, which act through MC1R-MC5R receptors.
KPV enters cells and directly inhibits NF-kB activation by preventing the phosphorylation of IkB-alpha and the subsequent nuclear translocation of the NF-kB p65 subunit. By blocking this master inflammatory transcription factor, KPV suppresses the production of a broad array of pro-inflammatory mediators including TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, and nitric oxide. Brzoska et al. demonstrated this intracellular mechanism is independent of cell-surface melanocortin receptor engagement.
KPV also exhibits direct antimicrobial activity against several pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. In gastrointestinal research, Kannengiesser et al. showed KPV reduces colonic inflammation in murine colitis models, protecting mucosal integrity and reducing tissue damage. This dual anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial profile makes KPV relevant to IBD research and wound healing applications where infection and inflammation coexist.
Key Research Findings
- Brzoska et al. (2008) demonstrated KPV enters cells and directly inhibits NF-kB nuclear translocation independently of melanocortin receptors.
- Kannengiesser et al. (2008) showed KPV attenuates colonic inflammation in murine colitis models with reduced tissue damage and inflammatory cytokine levels.
- Luger et al. (2003) reviewed the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide KPV.
- Dalmasso et al. (2008) demonstrated KPV-loaded nanoparticles reduced colonic inflammation when delivered orally in a murine colitis model.
References
Dosage in Research
In vitro anti-inflammatory studies use 10-100 micromolar. Colitis studies in mice used 0.5-2 mg/kg. Antimicrobial activity observed at 50-200 micromolar.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilized powder at -20C. KPV is a very small tripeptide and is relatively stable. Reconstituted solution at 2-8C, use within 21 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is KPV?
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It works by entering cells and directly blocking NF-kB activation, without requiring melanocortin receptor binding.
Does KPV cause tanning like alpha-MSH?
No. KPV does not activate MC1R (the melanocortin receptor responsible for melanogenesis/tanning). Its anti-inflammatory mechanism is intracellular and receptor-independent.
What is the IBD research connection?
KPV has shown efficacy in murine colitis models, reducing inflammation and protecting intestinal mucosa. Research has also explored oral delivery using nanoparticles that target the inflamed colon.
Source KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine) for your research
98%+ purity, third-party tested, COA included