KPV
A C-terminal tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, studied for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity across gut, skin, and systemic inflammation models.
⏱ Half-Life
Short duration profile
KPV demonstrates a short half-life characteristic in research literature, shaping how observation windows and study timelines are typically structured.
⚡ Onset Characteristics
Moderate measurable response
Onset is observed as moderate — a property that influences how researchers structure comparative studies versus other compounds in the signalling research category.
🧠 Key Notes
What makes it distinct
- 01Derived from the C-terminus of α-MSH (residues 11–13)
- 02Studied across oral, topical, and injectable research routes
- 03Retains anti-inflammatory activity without melanocortin receptor pigmentation effects
🧬 Mechanism of Action
How it works
KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine) is the C-terminal tripeptide fragment of α-MSH. It enters cells and translocates to the nucleus, where it interferes with NF-κB signalling — a master regulator of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. By dampening NF-κB activation, KPV downregulates TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and other inflammatory mediators. Unlike full-length α-MSH, KPV does not appreciably activate melanocortin receptors, so it retains anti-inflammatory activity without driving pigmentation pathways. Research also describes inhibition of mast-cell degranulation and modulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).
✨ Documented Benefits
What the research shows it supports
🔍 Research Insights
What the literature shows
Acts intracellularly via NF-κB pathway interference rather than surface receptor binding, distinguishing its mechanism from most peptide signalling agents.
Retains the anti-inflammatory activity of α-MSH without the melanocortin-receptor-mediated pigmentation effects.
Frequently paired with BPC-157 in gut-repair research protocols for complementary mechanisms.
🧪 Typical Research Use Cases
Where it appears in study design
Gut barrier and IBD-style inflammation research.
Topical anti-inflammatory and wound-healing studies.
Comparative immunomodulation research vs other α-MSH derivatives.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
Educational research summary only
This profile summarises published research on KPV. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it is not intended to promote human use, self-administration, or the substitution of professional healthcare. Discuss any health decision with a licensed clinician.
Continue Exploring
Also explore: BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu