What is KPV?
KPV denotes the C-terminal tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val, positions 11–13) of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Published literature positions KPV as a tool compound for anti-inflammatory signaling, NF-κB inhibition, and mucosal-barrier models—distinct from melanocortin receptor agonists.
Research-grade materials are available from vendors offering certificates of analysis documenting batch identity and purity. Laboratories procuring KPV for experimental use should match supplier documentation to institutional assay protocols.
Research areas & preclinical findings
Anti-inflammatory research
Kannengiesser et al. (2008, DOI:10.1002/ibd.20334) reported that KPV reduced DSS- and CD45RBhi transfer-colitis severity in mice, with effects independent of MC1R signaling—assay endpoints depend on inflammatory model and species.
NF-κB and PepT1 pathway studies
Dalmasso et al. (2008, PMID:18061177) demonstrated PepT1-mediated KPV uptake inhibited NF-κB and MAPK pathways in intestinal epithelial and immune cells—translation depends on cell type and inflammatory stimulus.
HHS enforcement discretion status (Oct 2026)
On October 30, 2026, HHS published an enforcement discretion policy for 503A compounding with KPV acetate (topical and oral routes) under specified conditions (Federal Register Vol. 91, No. 209, FR Doc. 2026-22192). The policy applies to state-licensed pharmacies, federal facilities, and licensed physicians compounding patient-specific prescriptions—not RUO catalog suppliers. See HHS enforcement discretion analysis.
Published research (selection)
| Study | Journal | Year | DOI | Finding (summary) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease | Inflamm Bowel Dis | 2008 | link | DSS- and transfer-colitis models showed reduced inflammation with KPV—MC1R-independent effects. |
| PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation | Gastroenterology | 2008 | link | PepT1 transport enables KPV to inhibit NF-κB in epithelial and immune cells—species translation requires validation. |
| Dissection of the anti-inflammatory effect of the core and C-terminal (KPV) alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone peptides | J Pharmacol Exp Ther | 2003 | link | KPV reduced peritonitis independently of MC1R; IL-1β pathway involvement suggested. |
| Inhibition of cellular and systemic inflammation cues in human bronchial epithelial cells by melanocortin-related peptides | Int J Physiol Pathophysiol Pharmacol | 2012 | link | KPV inhibited NF-κB nuclear translocation in airway epithelium—mechanism distinct from MC3R activation. |
Important Disclaimer
All products and information on this page are intended strictly for laboratory and scientific research use only. Not for human consumption. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Quality & documentation
Certificates of analysis should confirm peptide identity via mass spectrometry and provide HPLC purity data acceptable to your QA standards. Verify salt form (acetate vs free base) matches assay requirements.
Storage & reconstitution (laboratory protocol)
- Maintain lyophilized peptide sealed with desiccant until reconstitution.
- Store at −20 °C or per vendor stability guidance.
- Reconstitute using sterile solvent per validated protocols.
- Aliquot reconstituted stock to limit freeze–thaw cycles.
Use the research peptide stock solution calculator to translate mass and concentration targets into documented laboratory volumes.
Where to source for research
Compare retailer COA transparency on the vendor matrix; see partner codes for checkout context.
| Vendor | List context | COA signal | Code |
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Reviewed by Dr. Elena Vasquez, Ph.D.· Last reviewed November 2026