KPV

Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is classified as a melanotropin. It is an endogenous peptide hormone made up of 13 amino acids and is thought to play roles in metabolic regulation and other biological processes. Scientists isolated a specific fragment of this hormone and identified its potential effects, naming it KPV peptide. KPV consists of three amino acids: Lysine, Proline, and Valine.(1) This tripeptide is the C-terminal fragment of α-MSH, considered the key sequence responsible for many of the hormone’s properties.(2)

A 1989 study explained how the tripeptide was isolated and its biological activity assessed. After determining that the COOH-terminal portion of α-MSH served as the primary messenger sequence, researchers tested whether KPV could reduce excessive vasopermeability and swelling. In the experiment, the isolated KPV peptide was administered to mice with induced ear swelling. The results showed that the fragment appeared to inhibit the swelling. KPV’s potential anti-inflammatory effects may occur by inactivating inflammatory pathways.(3) It may also help inhibit the synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in intestinal and immune cells.

Chemical Makeup Molecular Formula: C16H30N4O4 Molecular Weight: 342.43 g/mol Other Known Titles: MSH (11-13), ACTH(11-13), alpha-MSH(11-13)