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PepStack

KPV

Immune System
Lys-Pro-Valalpha-MSH(11-13)

Overview

KPV, also known as Lys-Pro-Val or alpha-MSH(11-13), is a tripeptide derived from the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It is composed of the amino acids lysine, proline, and valine. KPV can be synthesized using standard solid-phase peptide synthesis techniques, which allow for precise control over its sequence and purity. This peptide is of interest due to its potential therapeutic applications in modulating immune responses. Researchers have primarily focused on KPV's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Studies have shown that KPV can reduce inflammation in various models, including skin and intestinal inflammation. Its potential to modulate immune responses makes it a candidate for treating conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and other autoimmune disorders. The mechanism of action of KPV involves its interaction with melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R and MC3R. These receptors are part of the G-protein-coupled receptor family and play a role in regulating immune responses and inflammation. By binding to these receptors, KPV can modulate signaling pathways that lead to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pharmacokinetic data on KPV is limited. Researchers have noted that peptides like KPV generally have short half-lives due to rapid degradation by proteases. The bioavailability of KPV by various routes is not well-documented, but peptides typically have low oral bioavailability. Current research on KPV is ongoing, with studies exploring its efficacy and safety in preclinical models. It is not yet approved for clinical use, and its regulatory status varies by region. As of now, KPV is primarily available as a research chemical, and its use is restricted to laboratory settings.

Mechanism of Action

KPV exerts its effects by binding to melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R and MC3R, which are involved in immune regulation. This interaction leads to the modulation of signaling pathways that reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects.

Molecular Data

FormulaC11H12O3
Molecular Weight192.21 g/mol
CAS Number88768-11-0
PubChem CID13294447

Half-Life

IntranasalNot applicable
OralPoor bioavailability

Peptides like KPV are generally subject to rapid degradation by proteases, leading to short half-lives.

Storage

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Solubility

KPV is soluble in water and aqueous solutions.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Not approved as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance. Sale as research chemical is a legal grey area.

🇺🇸US

Not approved by the FDA as a medicinal product. Not scheduled by the DEA.

🇦🇺AU

Not listed in the TGA schedules.

🇬🇧UK

Not approved by the MHRA as a medicinal product.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

10 Research Publications

NLRP3 autophagic degradation disruption in melanocytes contributes to vitiligo development.

Human

Cell death and differentiation · 2026

Researchers found that a protein called NLRP3 is overactive in the skin cells of people with vitiligo, a condition that causes loss of skin color. This overactivity leads to increased inflammation and cell death in these skin cells. The study also observed that reducing NLRP3 levels in these cells can slow down vitiligo progression, suggesting new potential treatment strategies.

  • NLRP3 expression is significantly increased in the melanocytes of vitiligo patients.
  • Disruption of a specific protein's function leads to the harmful activation of NLRP3, contributing to vitiligo development.
  • Targeting NLRP3 in melanocytes using specialized delivery methods effectively reduces vitiligo progression in experimental models.
PubMed

Lysine-Proline-Valine peptide mitigates fine dust-induced keratinocyte apoptosis and inflammation by regulating oxidative stress and modulating the MAPK/NF-κB pathway.

Unknown

Tissue & cell · 2025

Researchers studied the effects of a peptide called Lysine-Proline-Valine (KPV) on skin cells exposed to fine particulate matter, which can harm skin health. They found that KPV helps protect these cells from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by airborne pollutants.

  • KPV reduced cell death in skin cells exposed to fine particulate matter.
  • The peptide helped lower inflammation and oxidative stress in these cells.
  • KPV worked by regulating specific biological pathways related to inflammation and cell survival.
PubMed

Vimentin is required for tumor progression and metastasis in a mouse model of non-small cell lung cancer.

Animal

Oncogene · 2023

Researchers studied the role of a protein called vimentin in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using mouse models. They found that vimentin is essential for the advancement and spread of this type of cancer, suggesting that targeting vimentin could be a potential strategy for treatment.

  • Vimentin is highly expressed in metastatic cancers and is linked to worse outcomes for patients.
  • The study demonstrated that vimentin is necessary for the progression of non-small cell lung cancer in mouse models.
  • Three different experimental models confirmed the role of vimentin in tumor advancement and metastasis.
PubMed

A KPV-binding double-network hydrogel restores gut mucosal barrier in an inflamed colon.

Animal

Acta biomaterialia · 2022

Researchers found that a specially designed hydrogel, called PMSP, can effectively adhere to inflamed areas of the colon in rats with ulcerative colitis. This hydrogel not only helps restore the gut's protective barrier but also enhances the retention of a model drug, KPV, which improves gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.

  • PMSP specifically adhered to inflamed colon tissue rather than healthy tissue, allowing for targeted treatment.
  • The combination of PMSP and KPV significantly improved the recovery of the colon's epithelial barrier in rats with ulcerative colitis.
  • PMSP-KPV treatment positively influenced gut flora, increasing the presence of beneficial microorganisms.
PubMed

Self-Cross-Linked Hydrogel of Cysteamine-Grafted γ-Polyglutamic Acid Stabilized Tripeptide KPV for Alleviating TNBS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats.

Unknown

ACS biomaterials science & engineering · 2021

Researchers studied a new hydrogel made from a modified substance called SH-PGA that stabilizes the anti-inflammatory peptide KPV. They found that this hydrogel maintains the stability of KPV when used rectally, which could improve its effectiveness in reducing inflammation in conditions like ulcerative colitis. This study highlights the potential of this new formulation in managing inflammatory bowel diseases.

  • Researchers observed that the SH-PGA hydrogel can stabilize the tripeptide KPV, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
  • The hydrogel was formed through self-cross-linking without the need for additional cross-linkers.
  • The stability of KPV in the hydrogel was not compromised, suggesting improved therapeutic potential.
PubMed

Peptide Receptor-Targeted Fluorescent Probe: Visualization and Discrimination between Chronic and Acute Ulcerative Colitis.

Unknown

ACS applied materials & interfaces · 2017

Researchers developed a new fluorescent probe that can accurately visualize and differentiate between chronic and acute ulcerative colitis using a noninvasive method. This probe targets a specific receptor in the cells of the colon, allowing for real-time monitoring of inflammation without the need for invasive procedures.

  • The fluorescent probe, DCM-KPV, specifically targets the PepT1 receptor overexpressed in chronic ulcerative colitis cells.
  • This method allows for direct observation of inflammation in the colon, distinguishing between chronic and acute conditions.
  • The probe offers advantages over traditional imaging techniques, such as reduced invasiveness and the ability to provide real-time diagnostic information.
PubMed

Drug-loaded nanoparticles targeted to the colon with polysaccharide hydrogel reduce colitis in a mouse model.

Animal

Gastroenterology · 2010

Researchers studied a new method to deliver an anti-inflammatory peptide to the colon using tiny particles called nanoparticles. They found that these nanoparticles effectively reduced inflammation in a mouse model of colitis, showing promise for future treatments of inflammatory bowel disease.

  • Nanoparticles successfully delivered the anti-inflammatory peptide KPV directly to the inflamed colon.
  • The treatment with KPV-loaded nanoparticles significantly reduced inflammation in mice compared to those that did not receive the nanoparticles.
  • This method allows for a much lower concentration of the peptide to be effective, suggesting a more efficient way to target inflammation.
PubMed

alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone, MSH 11-13 KPV and adrenocorticotropic hormone signalling in human keratinocyte cells.

Unknown

The Journal of investigative dermatology · 2004

Researchers studied how certain hormones, specifically alpha-MSH and its peptides, affect human skin cells. They found that these hormones increased calcium levels in the cells but did not elevate cyclic AMP, a molecule often linked to inflammation reduction.

  • Researchers observed that alpha-MSH and its peptides increased intracellular calcium levels in human keratinocyte cells.
  • No increase in cyclic AMP was detected in response to these hormones in either normal or transformed keratinocytes.
  • Normal keratinocytes showed a distinct response to ACTH 1-17, unlike HaCaT keratinocytes.
PubMed

The neuropeptide alpha-MSH in host defense.

Review

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences · 2000

Researchers observed that alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), found in the gut and skin, plays a role in the body's defense against infections. This study highlighted its ability to inhibit harmful bacteria and yeast, as well as reduce HIV replication in human cells. The findings suggest that alpha-MSH could be beneficial in managing conditions where infection and inflammation occur together.

  • Researchers found that alpha-MSH and its fragment KPV can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.
  • The study observed that alpha-MSH reduced HIV replication in human immune cells.
  • Researchers noted that alpha-MSH may help manage inflammation and infection simultaneously due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
PubMed

The neuroimmunomodulatory peptide alpha-MSH.

Review

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences · 2000

Researchers observed that alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) plays a significant role in regulating inflammation in the body and brain. This peptide influences immune responses by inhibiting a key inflammatory factor, NF-kappa B, and affects both peripheral and central nervous system inflammation.

  • Alpha-MSH modulates the production and action of proinflammatory cytokines in inflammatory cells.
  • It inhibits the activation of NF-kappa B, which is crucial for controlling inflammation.
  • Alpha-MSH acts on both peripheral host cells and inflammatory cells in the brain to regulate inflammation.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.