KPV research overview

KPV is the tripeptide L-lysyl-L-prolyl-L-valine (Lys-Pro-Val). It is the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH 11-13), a 13-amino-acid peptide cut from pro-opiomelanocortin. Published work studies it in cultured cells and rodent models, including its uptake by the intestinal peptide transporter PepT1.

KPV is not approved by the FDA for any use. Pep Shop Texas supplies it as a lyophilized powder for laboratory research only.

Identity and structure

NameKPV (alpha-MSH 11-13, Lys-Pro-Val)
SequenceLys-Pro-Val (KPV)
Length3 amino acids
Molecular formulaC16H30N4O4
Molecular weightabout 342.4 g/mol
CAS number67727-97-3
FormWhite lyophilized powder in a sealed vial

Published research

KPV has been studied in cultured human cell lines and in mouse colitis models. The papers below are listed by what was measured. They are not evidence of safety or effect in people.

  1. Mouse peritonitis models (urate crystal and IL-1beta), including mice with a non-functional MC1 receptor, and isolated macrophages. Measured neutrophil accumulation, KC and IL-1beta release and cAMP, against alpha-MSH and melanocortin receptor agonists.

    Getting SJ, Schiöth HB, Perretti M. Dissection of the anti-inflammatory effect of the core and C-terminal (KPV) alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone peptides. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2003;306(2):631-637. PubMed 12750433

  2. Human intestinal epithelial cell lines (Caco2-BBE, HT29) and Jurkat T cells, plus DSS and TNBS colitis in mice. Measured PepT1-mediated uptake kinetics, NF-kB and MAP kinase signaling, cytokine secretion and colon histology.

    Dalmasso G, Charrier-Hisamuddin L, Nguyen HT, et al. PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology. 2008;134(1):166-178. PubMed 18061177

  3. DSS and CD45RBhi transfer colitis in mice, including mice lacking a functional melanocortin-1 receptor. Measured body weight, colon histology and myeloperoxidase activity.

    Kannengiesser K, Maaser C, Heidemann J, et al. Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2008;14(3):324-331. PubMed 18092346

Storage of lyophilized material

Keep lyophilized KPV sealed, dry and away from light, in a freezer for long-term storage of the powder. Let a cold vial reach room temperature before opening it so moisture does not condense on the powder.

Lab testing

Each batch Pep Shop Texas sells is sent to an independent lab for identity (LC-MS) and purity (HPLC) testing. See the product page for the current certificate. How we test.

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For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not a drug, food, cosmetic or supplement. Pep Shop Texas is not a compounding pharmacy and does not give dosing or preparation guidance. Nothing on this page is medical advice or a claim about use in people.