KPV

KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide Lys-Pro-Val of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite being only three residues — far shorter than the parent 13-residue hormone — KPV retains the anti-inflammatory activity of α-MSH while having essentially none of the melanocortin- receptor activity that drives pigmentation and central effects.

CAS 159492-07-6, molecular weight 329.43 g/mol. ChEMBL ID CHEMBL317974.

KPV's anti-inflammatory mechanism is independent of the melanocortin receptors that α-MSH activates. The peptide appears to act intracellularly, modulating NF-κB activation and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production (notably TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) in keratinocytes, intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells.

The intracellular action is consistent with KPV's ability to penetrate cell membranes — a property unusual for a small tripeptide and attributable to its non-polar valine residue.

Investigated in preclinical models of inflammatory bowel disease (notably DSS-induced colitis), atopic dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin and mucosal conditions. The absence of melanocortin-receptor side-effects (unlike full α-MSH or Melanotan-II) is the principal advantage of KPV as a research probe for the anti-inflammatory arm of α-MSH biology.

Supplied as a research-grade reference standard for laboratory use only. Not a licensed medicinal product in the United Kingdom and not approved by the MHRA for human or veterinary administration. Sale is restricted to researchers, institutions and laboratory professionals; the compound must be retained within research premises. End-user compliance with the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (where applicable) and local institutional biosafety policy is the responsibility of the buyer.