KPV — Anti-Inflammatory Tripeptide — Immunity
C-terminal tripeptide fragment of alpha-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory activity. Research compound for inflammatory conditions.
Overview
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a tripeptide derived from the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). While alpha-MSH is a 13-amino-acid neuropeptide with well-established anti-inflammatory properties mediated through melanocortin receptors (MC1R-MC5R), the tripeptide KPV retains potent anti-inflammatory activity through a distinct, receptor-independent mechanism. KPV enters cells and translocates to the nucleus, where it inhibits NF-kB activation by preventing the phosphorylation and degradation of IkB-alpha, the inhibitory subunit that keeps NF-kB sequestered in the cytoplasm. In preclinical models, KPV has demonstrated efficacy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), reducing colonic inflammation in DSS-induced colitis models when administered orally, intraperitoneally, or even as a transepithelial peptide. Remarkably, oral KPV shows efficacy despite its small size, suggesting absorption through the GI mucosa or local anti-inflammatory action on intestinal epithelium. KPV has also shown anti-inflammatory effects in models of dermatitis, arthritis, and systemic inflammation. The peptide's small size (tripeptide) makes it relatively easy to synthesize and potentially suitable for oral delivery — a significant advantage over larger peptide therapeutics. However, all evidence is preclinical, and no human clinical trials have been conducted. KPV is available from research peptide suppliers and is increasingly used in functional medicine, particularly for gut inflammation.
Indications
- Investigational: Inflammatory bowel disease (preclinical — oral and injectable)
- Investigational: Inflammatory skin conditions (preclinical)
- Research only: Gut inflammation and mucosal healing
- Research only: Systemic anti-inflammatory therapy
Mechanism of Action
KPV enters cells through peptide transporters, bypassing the need for melanocortin receptor activation
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| KPV | 250-500 mcg | Once or twice daily | Anecdotal gut inflammation protocol — NO clinical data |
| KPV | 200-500 mcg | Once daily | Anecdotal systemic anti-inflammatory protocol — NO clinical data |
Evidence Grade
GRADE D
Safety & Contraindications
- NO human safety data — all evidence preclinical
- Generally well-tolerated in animal studies
- Research peptide only — quality and purity unverified
- Not FDA-approved for any indication
- Mechanism involves NF-kB inhibition — theoretical immunosuppression concern with chronic use
- No established safe dose for humans