KPV Peptide Description
KPV (Lys–Pro–Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide fragment of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). As a small, bioactive peptide, KPV reproduces many of α-MSH’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and tissue-protective activities while avoiding full-length melanocortin receptor signaling in some contexts. In research settings KPV has been studied for:
- Potent anti-inflammatory action — suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines and leukocyte activation.
- Antimicrobial activity — direct candidacidal and bactericidal effects reported for α-MSH C-terminal fragments including KPV.
- Mucosal and epithelial protection / wound healing — accelerates epithelial repair in corneal and other epithelial models.
- Anti-fibrotic and immunomodulatory effects — reduces fibrosis and shifts macrophage phenotypes in preclinical studies.
- Favorable safety & non-immunogenic profile in multiple animal models.
KPV is a useful research tool for studying innate immune regulation, mucosal defense and novel anti-inflammatory peptide therapeutics.
KPV Structure
- Sequence: Lys–Pro–Val (KPV) — the C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH (α-MSH(11–13)).
- Molecular formula (tri-peptide only): C₁₅H₂₆N₄O₄ (approximate for the free tripeptide)
- Synonyms: α-MSH(11–13), melanocortin C-terminal tripeptide, KPV.
- Form: synthetic peptide, typically supplied lyophilized for research use.
Research Areas
- Anti-inflammatory therapeutics
- Antimicrobial peptides & host defense
- Mucosal / epithelial wound healing (cornea, skin, mucosa)
- Anti-fibrotic interventions
- Peptide delivery and formulation research