KPV
Also known as: Alpha-MSH Fragment, Lys-Pro-Val, α-MSH (11-13)
KPV is a tripeptide fragment derived from alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory effects through melanocortin receptor activation. This small peptide shows particular promise for treating inflammatory bowel conditions and skin disorders.
KPV is a 356.46 g/mol research peptide. KPV is a tripeptide fragment derived from alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory effects through melanocortin receptor activation. This small peptide shows particular promise for treating inflammatory bowel conditions and skin disorders.
Also called: Alpha-MSH Fragment, Lys-Pro-Val, α-MSH (11-13)
356.46 g/mol
Molecular Weight
Daltons
1
Strong Evidence
benefits
4
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
1-5
Typical Dose
mg
Overview
KPV represents the C-terminal tripeptide sequence of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone, consisting of lysine-proline-valine amino acids. Unlike its parent hormone, KPV lacks melanotropic activity while retaining powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The peptide works by activating melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) on immune cells, particularly macrophages, leading to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Research has focused extensively on its therapeutic potential for inflammatory bowel disease, where KPV can be administered orally due to its resistance to enzymatic degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. The peptide also shows activity at the skin level, making it a candidate for treating various dermatological inflammatory conditions.
Key Takeaways: KPV
- Strongest evidence supports KPV for colitis symptom improvement
- Research doses typically range from 1 to 5 mg via oral
- 1 benefits with strong evidence, 4 moderate, 1 preliminary
- Half-life: 2-4 hours (oral), 1-2 hours (subcutaneous)
- 4 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
KPV activates melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) on immune cells, particularly macrophages and dendritic cells. This activation triggers cAMP-dependent signaling pathways that suppress NF-κB activation, reducing transcription of pro-inflammatory genes. The peptide also promotes M2 macrophage polarization, shifting the immune response from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory and tissue-repairing states. Additionally, KPV enhances IL-10 production while simultaneously decreasing TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 synthesis.
Research Benefits
KPV at a Glance
KPV activates melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) on immune cells, particularly macrophages and dendritic cells.
Colitis Symptom Improvement
Strong EvidenceOral administration significantly reduces colonic damage scores, inflammatory markers, and histological changes in experimental colitis models
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment
Moderate EvidenceReduces colonic inflammation, improves intestinal barrier function, and decreases disease activity scores in IBD models through MC1R-mediated suppression of inflammatory cytokines
Skin Inflammation Reduction
Moderate EvidenceDemonstrates anti-inflammatory effects in dermatitis models by reducing keratinocyte activation, decreasing inflammatory cell infiltration, and improving barrier function
Systemic Anti-inflammatory Effects
Moderate EvidenceDecreases circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein levels while maintaining normal immune function
Gut Barrier Protection
Moderate EvidenceStrengthens tight junction integrity, reduces intestinal permeability, and protects against bacterial translocation in inflammatory conditions
Wound Healing Enhancement
PreliminaryAccelerates tissue repair through reduced inflammation, improved angiogenesis, and enhanced collagen deposition at wound sites
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| IBD research (oral) | 1–5 mg | oral |
| Skin inflammation (topical) | 0.1–1 mg/ml | topical |
| Systemic anti-inflammatory (subcutaneous) | 0.5–2 mg | subcutaneous |
Frequency
Once to twice daily
Timing
With or without food for oral; any time for injection
Cycle Length
2-8 weeks typical research protocols
Research Notes
- 1Oral administration preferred for gut-related research due to direct local effects
- 2Start with lower doses to assess tolerance
- 3May be combined with other anti-inflammatory compounds in research settings
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
2 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
2 mL
Concentration
10 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
KPV vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 2 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at 2-8°C refrigerated. 30 days reconstituted, 24 months lyophilized.
Storage Temperature
2-8°C refrigerated
Shelf Life
30 days reconstituted, 24 months lyophilized
Important Notes
- •Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose vials
- •Gentle swirling recommended - avoid vigorous shaking
- •Solution should be clear and colorless
- •Freeze-thaw cycles may reduce potency
KPV Dosing Calculator
Calculate daily intake, cycle totals, and vials needed with pre-filled protocols →
KPV Reconstitution Calculator
Calculate concentration, syringe units, and doses per vial with auto-filled values →
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Mild gastrointestinal upset (oral administration)
- !Injection site irritation or redness
- !Temporary fatigue in sensitive individuals
- !Nausea (primarily with higher oral doses)
- !Headache (uncommon)
- !Skin flushing (rare)
- !Temporary appetite changes
- !Mild dizziness
Potential Interactions
- ⚡Anti-inflammatory medications (may enhance effects)
- ⚡Immunosuppressive drugs (potential additive immunomodulation)
- ⚡Corticosteroids (may alter anti-inflammatory response)
- ⚡TNF-alpha inhibitors (theoretical interaction through shared pathways)
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
The anti-inflammatory tripeptide KPV shows promising results in a murine model of inflammatory bowel disease
Oral KPV administration significantly reduced colonic inflammation, improved histological scores, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in DSS-induced colitis.
α-MSH and its C-terminal tripeptide KPV can inhibit respiratory burst in human neutrophils
KPV demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of neutrophil activation and inflammatory mediator release through melanocortin receptor signaling.
Anti-inflammatory effects of the C-terminal tripeptide α-MSH(11-13) in experimental colitis
KPV treatment reduced colonic damage scores, inflammatory cell infiltration, and pro-inflammatory gene expression in multiple colitis models.
The melanocortin peptide KPV is anti-inflammatory in human and murine skin
Topical KPV application significantly reduced inflammatory markers, cellular infiltration, and tissue damage in contact dermatitis models.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
KPV is primarily researched for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in treating inflammatory bowel disease, skin conditions, and other inflammatory disorders. It works by activating melanocortin receptors to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
Research shows KPV can begin reducing inflammatory markers within 24-48 hours of administration, with peak anti-inflammatory effects typically observed after 3-7 days of consistent dosing.
Yes, KPV is often administered orally in research, particularly for gut-related inflammatory conditions. The peptide shows resistance to digestive enzymes and maintains activity when taken by mouth.
Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset with oral use and injection site irritation with subcutaneous administration. Most subjects tolerate KPV well with minimal adverse effects.
Add 2ml of bacteriostatic water to a 2mg vial, allowing it to dissolve naturally without shaking. Store reconstituted solution refrigerated and use within 30 days.
KPV and BPC-157 work through different mechanisms - KPV targets melanocortin receptors while BPC-157 affects growth factors. KPV may be more specific for immune-mediated inflammation, while BPC-157 has broader tissue repair effects.
KPV is a three amino acid fragment of alpha-MSH that retains the anti-inflammatory properties without the melanotropic (skin pigmentation) effects of the full hormone.
Research in inflammatory bowel disease models shows KPV reduces colonic inflammation and improves intestinal barrier function, suggesting potential therapeutic applications, though human clinical trials are still needed.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.