What is KPV?
KPV is a bioactive tripeptide consisting of the amino acids lysine-proline-valine, which occurs as a C-terminal fragment in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). This naturally occurring peptide belongs to the class of melanocortin-derived peptides and was first identified in the 1980s as a metabolic product of α-MSH processing in various tissues. The molecular formula of KPV is C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₄ with a molecular weight of 342.44 Da. The sequence H-Lys-Pro-Val-OH represents the smallest biologically active fragment of the melanocortin system that retains anti-inflammatory properties without the pigmentation effects of the full α-MSH molecule.
Mechanism of Action
KPV exerts its biological effects through the modulation of various inflammatory pathways, primarily by interacting with the melanocortin system and directly influencing inflammatory mediators. The peptide binds to melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R and MC3R, leading to the activation of cAMP signaling pathways and downstream anti-inflammatory responses. KPV inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory factors like IL-10. Additionally, KPV modulates the NF-κB signaling pathway, a central regulator of inflammatory gene expression, by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB subunits. The peptide also exhibits antimicrobial activity through direct interaction with bacterial cell walls and modulation of host-pathogen interactions.
Research Results
Preclinical studies have demonstrated consistent anti-inflammatory effects of KPV in various experimental models. In a carrageenan-induced edema model in rats, local administration of KPV (100 μg/ml) resulted in a 65% reduction in tissue swelling compared to control groups after 4 hours of treatment. In vitro studies with human keratinocytes showed that KPV (10-100 μM) reduced UV-B induced IL-1β production by 70-80% and significantly improved cell viability. Antimicrobial research demonstrated that KPV (50-200 μg/ml) effectively inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, with MIC values of 125 μg/ml and 100 μg/ml respectively. In mouse colitis models, KPV treatment (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) reduced histopathological scores by an average of 55% and normalized colon length to 85% of control values after 7 days of treatment.
Available Variants and Purity
Dutch Peptide Labs offers KPV as a high-purity research-grade peptide with a guaranteed purity of ≥99.9%, verified by HPLC analysis and mass spectrometry. The product is available in a 10mg variant (€69), packaged in sterile glass vials under an inert atmosphere to ensure peptide integrity. Each batch is independently tested by accredited laboratories in accordance with European quality standards. The delivered peptide is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with detailed purity and identity specifications, including water and TFA content for accurate concentration determinations in research applications.
Storage and Handling
KPV should be stored at -20°C in its original packaging, protected from light and moisture to prevent peptide degradation. Under these conditions, the peptide maintains its stability for at least 24 months from the production date. For reconstitution, it is recommended to use sterile distilled water or PBS (pH 7.4), with gentle mixing advised to avoid foaming. Reconstituted solutions are stable for 48 hours at 2-8°C and can be frozen at -80°C for long-term storage up to 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and always use sterile techniques during handling to prevent contamination.
Research Disclaimer
This product is intended solely for in vitro scientific research and laboratory use by qualified researchers. KPV is not approved for human use, therapeutic application, or consumption. It should not be used for diagnostic purposes or as a medicine. Users are responsible for complying with all relevant local and international regulations concerning peptide research. Dutch Peptide Labs disclaims all responsibility for improper use of this product and emphasizes that all research activities must be conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines and institutional protocols.
