Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 3 amino acids · MSH-Fragment
Sequence
Lys-Pro-Val (KPV)
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- KPV is a tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) corresponding to the C-terminal end of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
- While the full α-MSH (13 amino acids) is strongly pigmenting and binds MC1R/MC3R, the KPV fragment exerts its anti-inflammatory effects via mechanisms that are partly independent of melanocortin receptors.
- KPV inhibits NF-κB signalling pathways in intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells, reduces the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, TNF-α) and appears able to enter inflammatory cells directly.
- Owing to its small size (tripeptide), KPV shows good intestinal stability.
Research status
- Since 2001, about two dozen preclinical studies on KPV have been published, mainly in models of intestinal inflammation (colitis animal models), pneumonia and wound healing.
- Kannengiesser et al. (2008) showed a significant reduction of inflammation by orally administered KPV in mouse colitis models.
- Catania et al. established the foundation of α-MSH fragment research.
- Controlled clinical studies in humans are entirely lacking; interest in KPV is growing in the gut-health and IBD community, but to date it remains exclusively preclinically grounded.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01No clinical safety data in humans
- 02Long-term effects entirely unknown
- 03Quality control not guaranteed from research-chemical sources
- 04Extrapolation from animal models to humans not scientifically validated
Frequently asked questions
What is KPV?
KPV is a tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) corresponding to the C-terminal end of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
What type of peptide is KPV?
KPV belongs to the MSH fragment class.
Is KPV legal in Germany?
The regulatory status of KPV in Germany is not clearly classified.
Where can I buy KPV?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. KPV is "unclassified" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is KPV banned in sport (WADA)?
KPV is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of KPV?
Documented risks include: No clinical safety data in humans; Long-term effects entirely unknown. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is KPV?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of KPV?
KPV has a molar mass of about 342.43 Da.
Which peptides are related to KPV?
Closely related entries: BPC-157, LL-37. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
unclassifiedAustria
unclassifiedSwitzerland
unclassifiedEU
unclassifiedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 3 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 125672
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 28 May 2026
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
Anzeige
Reserviert für sorgfältig ausgewählte Partner — Telemedizin, Diagnostik, legale topische Anwendungen.