1. What is KPV?
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide with the amino acid sequence Lys-Pro-Val. It is derived from the C-terminal fragment of the α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). KPV has been studied in research models for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and epithelial-supportive properties, and is of interest for scientific investigations into immune modulation, barrier function, and cellular signaling pathways.
2. KPV Structure
Amino Acid Sequence: Lys-Pro-Val
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₄
Molecular Weight: 342.43 g/mol
PubChem CID: 125672
CAS Number: 67727-97-3
Synonyms: MSH (11-13),ACTH(11-13),alpha-MSH(11-13)
3. KPV Research
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a naturally occurring C-terminal tripeptide fragment of α-MSH. Research has demonstrated its ability to influence inflammatory signaling and epithelial dynamics, without affecting melanogenesis or pigmentation.
Its small molecular size makes it an attractive candidate for research into skin biology, immune signaling, and microbiome interactions.
【1】 Mechanism of Action
l Shown to inhibit NF-κB signaling, a central pathway in inflammation 【1】
l Demonstrated ability to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) while preserving protective immune responses 【2】
l Observed effects on epithelial cell migration and proliferation in barrier repair studies
l Exhibits antimicrobial activity in vitro against common bacterial strains
【2】 Preclinical Evidence
l Shown in experimental models to reduce markers of inflammatory activity in skin and gut tissue
l Investigated for its ability to maintain epithelial barrier integrity 【3】
l Evaluated in studies of microbial balance and wound-healing responses
【3】 Expert Insight
l Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2022): “KPV represents a small but highly potent peptide with broad-spectrum activity and negligible systemic toxicity in preclinical studies.”
l Researchers emphasize its value as a tool compound for immune and epithelial research.
✅ Why Consider KPV (Research Use)?
🧬 Compact tripeptide with strong research relevance
🔬 Studied in models of inflammation and microbial balance
🧫 Explored for effects on epithelial integrity and tissue repair
⚙️ Offers unique insights into α-MSH–derived peptide signaling
4. Future KPV Research
A. Dermatological Research
Investigated in models of skin barrier recovery, erythema reduction, and epithelial signaling after external stress.
B. Gastrointestinal Studies
Explored for its role in maintaining epithelial junction proteins and reducing markers of intestinal inflammation 【4】.
C. Respiratory Biology
Studied for its potential influence on airway inflammation and epithelial remodeling in lung tissue.
D. Cosmetic Peptide Research
KPV is of interest as a candidate in research on combination formulations with GHK-Cu, niacinamide, or EGF for studying barrier-support and skin environment balance.
E. Antimicrobial & Biomaterial Studies
Examined for incorporation into wound dressings and surface coatings to inhibit microbial overgrowth.
5. Application Area (Research Context Only)
l Skin Biology & Barrier Studies – Research into inflammation modulation and epithelial recovery 【5】
l Gastrointestinal Research – Models of mucosal barrier function and cytokine regulation
l Respiratory Models – Investigations into lung tissue response and epithelial stress adaptation
l Antimicrobial Studies – Laboratory evaluation against bacterial strains and biofilms
l Peptide Combination Research – Explored alongside compounds such as BPC-157, TB-500, and GHK-Cu for potential synergistic effects in experimental systems
✅ Summary
KPV is a minimal but multifunctional tripeptide that has been widely studied in research contexts for:
✔️ Potent activity in inflammation-related pathways
✔️ Supporting epithelial barrier models and microbial balance
✔️ Unique non-pigmentary profile compared to α-MSH derivatives
✔️ Broad interest in dermatology, gastrointestinal, and biomaterial research
⚠️ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro research use only. In-vitro studies (Latin: “in glass”) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
