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KPV

KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a C-terminal tripeptide fragment of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), with a molecular weight of approximately 343.4 Da and molecular formula C₁₆H₂₉N₅O₄. Corresponding to the Lys¹¹-Pro¹²-Val¹³ portion of the α-MSH sequence, KPV retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the full-length hormone without melanocortin receptor-mediated pigmentary effects. This compact tripeptide is a valuable research tool for studying non-pigmentary melanocortin signaling in inflammation and immune modulation.

Technical Specifications

Property Value
CAS Number —
Molecular Formula C₁₆H₂₉N₅O₄
Molecular Weight ~343.4 Da
Purity ≥99% (HPLC-verified)
Appearance Lyophilized white powder
Solubility Soluble in sterile water and aqueous buffers
Storage -20°C (lyophilized), 2–8°C (reconstituted)

Mechanism of Action

KPV exerts anti-inflammatory effects through direct inhibition of NF-κB nuclear translocation and subsequent suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Unlike full-length α-MSH, which signals through five melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R), KPV appears to function through a receptor-independent mechanism involving direct intracellular modulation of the IκB kinase (IKK) complex, preventing IκBα phosphorylation and degradation. This preserves NF-κB sequestration in the cytoplasm and blocks transcription of inflammatory genes. Additionally, KPV has been shown to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in activated neutrophils and macrophages, and to promote the resolution phase of inflammation by enhancing macrophage efferocytosis. In intestinal inflammation models, KPV reduces myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and maintains epithelial barrier integrity through tight junction protein preservation.

Research Applications

  • Primary: Anti-inflammatory signaling research — NF-κB pathway inhibition, cytokine suppression
  • Secondary: Inflammatory bowel disease models, dermatological inflammation, neutrophil-mediated tissue injury
  • Model Systems: In vitro (THP-1 monocytes, RAW 264.7 macrophages, Caco-2 intestinal epithelial monolayers), in vivo murine colitis models (DSS-induced, TNBS-induced)

Quality Control & Analytical Methods

  • HPLC: ≥99% purity verification at 214/220 nm (C18 reversed-phase column)
  • Mass Spectrometry: ESI-MS for molecular weight confirmation (~343.4 ±1.0 Da)
  • Peptide Content: Amino acid analysis (AAA) for net peptide content determination
  • Endotoxin: <1 EU/mg (LAL assay)
  • TFA Content: <1% (ion chromatography)

Stability & Storage

Condition Stability
-20°C (lyophilized) 24 months
4°C (lyophilized) 6 months
25°C (lyophilized) 1 month
Reconstituted (4°C) 7 days
Reconstituted (-20°C) 30 days

Key Research References

  • Luger et al. (2003) — The role of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in cutaneous biology. J Invest Dermatol. PMID: 12651100
  • Kannengiesser et al. (2008) — The C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH (KPV) reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology. PMID: 18199472
  • Brzoska et al. (2008) — α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone and related tripeptides: anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents. Am J Pathol. PMID: 18199472

Source & Purchase

For researchers requiring research-grade KPV with full analytical documentation including HPLC, LC-MS, and Certificate of Analysis, visit the HK Peptides product page for specifications, bulk pricing, and ordering.

View KPV Product →

FAQ

Q: What purity level is standard for KPV? A: HK Peptides supplies KPV at ≥99% purity by HPLC with full COA documentation.

Q: How should KPV be stored for research use? A: Lyophilized KPV should be stored at -20°C. Reconstituted solutions at 4°C for short-term use (up to 7 days).