KPV

KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a synthetic tripeptide derived from the C-terminal positions 11-13 of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a 13 amino acid neuropeptide processed from pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). Despite representing only the final three residues of the parent peptide, KPV retains measurable anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory models and has been examined for interactions with MC1R, MC3R, and MC5R — melanocortin receptors expressed on macrophages, dendritic cells, and intestinal epithelial cells.

Molecular formula: C16H31N3O4 | Molecular weight: 329.43 g/mol | CAS: 1101-61-7 | Sequence: Lys-Pro-Val | Amino acids: 3 | Parent peptide: Alpha-MSH (positions 11-13) | Purity: greater than or equal to 98% as verified by HPLC | Form: Lyophilised powder | Appearance: White crystalline powder | Storage: -20°C desiccated

Published research by Brzoska et al. (Endocrine Reviews, 2008) provided a comprehensive review of alpha-MSH and related tripeptides including KPV, examining receptor interactions and anti-inflammatory signalling in immune cell models. Laboratory studies have investigated KPV's effects on NFkB nuclear translocation and IkB phosphorylation in macrophage models, pro-inflammatory cytokine production including IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-8, and intestinal epithelial barrier function in Caco-2 cell systems. The precise mechanism in some models may be receptor-independent, involving direct NFkB pathway component interaction at concentrations above classical receptor pharmacology thresholds.

KPV's minimal size makes it straightforward to synthesise at high purity and useful as a minimal pharmacophore reference compound in alpha-MSH structure-activity relationship research alongside full-length alpha-MSH and synthetic analogues.

Supplied as a lyophilised powder. Reconstitute in sterile water. Store at -20°C. For laboratory and analytical research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.