KPV

Mechanism

KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH. Its anti-inflammatory effects appear to involve both melanocortin receptor (particularly MC1R and MC5R) dependent and independent pathways. KPV has been shown to inhibit NF-κB activation, reducing downstream pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β). It also appears to modulate intestinal epithelial barrier function and reduce inflammatory cell infiltration in affected tissues.

Evidence base

Evidence Grading: Limited

All evidence for KPV is preclinical (in vitro and animal models). No randomised controlled human trials have been published.

Key preclinical studies:

• Dalmasso et al. (2007) demonstrated that orally and systemically administered KPV reduced colitis severity in mouse models, with reduced inflammatory cytokine expression and preserved mucosal architecture.
• Brzoska et al. (2008) reviewed the broader evidence base for α-MSH-derived tripeptides, confirming anti-inflammatory activity across multiple models including septic shock, contact dermatitis, and allergic airway inflammation.
• Cutuli et al. (2000) characterised KPV's anti-inflammatory properties and its potential therapeutic relevance.

Gap: The absence of human clinical trials is a significant limitation. Extrapolation from animal models to human use is not warranted.

Protocols

Research-Only Protocols

No human dosing protocols are established or approved. The following describes protocols used in published preclinical research only.

• Oral (mouse colitis model): 200–400 µg/kg body weight, administered daily (Dalmasso et al., 2007)
• Intraperitoneal (mouse inflammation models): 50–200 µg per mouse
• Topical (wound healing): Applied directly to wound site in animal models

No human pharmacokinetic, safety, or efficacy data exists. Any discussion of human dosing is purely speculative.

UK legal status

KPV is not a licensed medicine in the UK and is not a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. It occupies a grey area: it may be sold for bona fide research purposes, but the MHRA has not approved it for human use or consumption. Researchers and suppliers must comply with the Human Medicines Regulations 2012. See our UK legal status guide for further detail.

Vendor notes

KPV is available from several UK research peptide suppliers. Researchers should request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) verifying purity (typically ≥98%) and follow the vendor vetting guide for supplier evaluation criteria.