• Sequence: Lys-Pro-Val (KPV)

• Molecular Weight: ~339.43 g/mol

• Molecular Formula: C17H33N5O4

• Structure: C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH (alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone)

• Name: KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine)

• Type: Synthetic tripeptide fragment

• Function: Blocks inflammatory responses via cytokine inhibition and immune modulation

• Use: Studied for treatment of IBD, colitis, dermatitis, autoimmune disorders, and gut dysregulation

• NF-κB Inhibition: Suppresses nuclear factor kappa B, a master switch for inflammation

• Cytokine Modulation: Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1β

• Melanocortin Pathway: Interacts with melanocortin receptors (especially MC1R) for anti-inflammatory action

• Intestinal Barrier Support: Promotes epithelial integrity and healing of gut lining

• Topical Action: Modulates skin inflammation in dermatitis and psoriasis

• Reduces inflammation in intestinal mucosa

• Promotes epithelial repair and mucosal protection

• Effective in managing colitis and leaky gut syndrome

• Suppresses overactive immune response

• Downregulates mast cells and histamine-driven inflammation

• Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation from eczema, psoriasis, and other dermatoses

• Promotes faster healing of inflamed skin

• Topical Cream – Best for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis

• Oral Capsules – Used for gut-related inflammation (though data is still emerging)

• Injectable (Subcutaneous) – Used in research for systemic inflammation control

• IBD Models: Suppressed colonic inflammation and prevented tissue damage in mouse models of colitis

• Cytokine Modulation: Reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in inflammatory conditions

• Skin Studies: Improved healing in models of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

• Oxidative Stress: Reduced free radical damage in inflammatory environments

While most data are preclinical, KPV shows significant promise as a low-toxicity anti-inflammatory peptide.

• Extremely well-tolerated

• Rare: mild skin irritation (topical), slight stomach upset (oral)

• No significant side effects or toxicity reported in research to date

• No known mutagenic or carcinogenic activity

• Appears non-toxic, even in high doses in animal models

• FDA Status: Not approved for therapeutic use

• Availability: Often found in research peptides or compound topicals

• Legal Use: Sold for research or cosmetic use only