What Is KPV?
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a synthetic tripeptide corresponding to amino acid positions 11-13 of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Full-length α-MSH exerts potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects via melanocortin receptors, but also drives melanogenesis through MC1R and has central appetite/energy effects through MC3R and MC4R. The C-terminal KPV tripeptide retains the anti-inflammatory activity of α-MSH through MC1R engagement while substantially reducing the broader receptor activation profile — providing a more targeted research tool for studying melanocortin-mediated inflammatory resolution.
KPV inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation — a master transcription factor governing pro-inflammatory gene expression — reducing downstream production of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and other inflammatory mediators. It has also been investigated in models of mucosal inflammation, gut epithelial integrity, and wound-associated cytokine responses. The small tripeptide structure confers favourable tissue penetration characteristics relevant to research in mucosal models. KPV can enter cells via the oligopeptide transporter PepT1 expressed in intestinal epithelial cells, making it particularly studied in gastrointestinal inflammation models.
For tissue repair and healing research, see BPC-157 (BC05 / BC10). For skin repair and extracellular matrix research, see GHK-Cu (CU50 / CU10). For research use only.
KPV Products
Supplied as lyophilised powder in boxes of 10 research-grade vials.
Quality Assurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy KPV in Australia?
Eternal Peptides Wholesale is an Australian-based online wholesale distributor. KPV10 (KPV 10mg, box of 10) is $495.00. Check the product page for available batch reports. Consult our Shipping Policy for processing and delivery estimates. Dispatch origin can vary, including offshore fulfilment; Australian business ownership does not guarantee domestic stock or customs-free delivery. For research use only.
What is the relationship between KPV and alpha-MSH?
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide fragment (Lys11-Pro12-Val13) of alpha-MSH. Full-length alpha-MSH (13 AA) activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. KPV retains anti-inflammatory activity via MC1R engagement and NF-κB inhibition but lacks the full spectrum of receptor interactions. This makes KPV a more targeted research tool when studying MC1R-dependent inflammatory pathways without activating central melanocortin receptors. For research use only.
How does KPV differ from BPC-157 in anti-inflammatory research?
KPV and BPC-157 both have anti-inflammatory properties but act through distinct mechanisms. KPV acts primarily via MC1R and NF-κB pathway inhibition. BPC-157 (pentadecapeptide body protection compound) acts through growth factor receptor pathways (VEGFR, EGFR), nitric oxide modulation, and cytoprotective effects — particularly in gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal tissues. They are studied in different research paradigms. For research use only.
How is KPV tested?
Review the published reports for the selected product and batch. Only the tests and results shown on those reports apply; do not assume additional methods or testing were performed.