KPV is a synthetic tripeptide fragment derived from the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It exerts regulatory effects on inflammatory signaling via melanocortin receptor activation and NF-κB pathway modulation in experimental models. KPV is used in research investigating epithelial integrity, cytokine balance, and immune-mediated stress responses.
What is KPV?
Ac-KPV-NH2 is the C-terminal peptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is one of many short peptide derivatives of alpha-MSH that has been tested to determine if they retain similar photoprotective properties, activity against ischemia, sexual defects, or benefits on feeding behavior and energy homeostasis. Ac-KPV-NH2, which is made up of lysine-proline-valine turns out to have significant anti-inflammatory activity in the central nervous system, GI tract, lungs, vascular system, and joints.
How does KPV work?
1. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Effects
KPV is best known for reducing inflammation without suppressing the immune system.
Inhibits NF-κB, a major inflammatory signaling pathway
Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β)
Helps calm chronic inflammatory states
Studied in:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Colitis
Skin inflammation
Autoimmune-related inflammation
2. Gut Health & Intestinal Healing
KPV is especially popular for gastrointestinal inflammation.
Helps restore intestinal barrier integrity
Reduces gut permeability (“leaky gut”)
Supports mucosal healing
May reduce symptoms like bloating, pain, and irritation
Often discussed alongside BPC-157 for complementary gut repair roles:
KPV → inflammation control
BPC-157 → tissue regeneration
3. Immune Modulation (Not Suppression)
KPV modulates immune activity rather than shutting it down.
Helps normalize overactive immune responses
Maintains host defense against infection
Useful in inflammatory conditions where immune balance is disrupted
4. Skin & Dermatologic Benefits
Because of its α-MSH origin, KPV has skin-calming properties.
Reduces redness and irritation
May help inflammatory skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis)
Studied in topical and systemic forms
5. Antimicrobial Properties (Secondary Benefit)
Some studies suggest KPV may:
Inhibit certain pathogenic bacteria
Support gut microbiome balance indirectly by reducing inflammation
6. Minimal Side Effects (Based on Available Data)
In research settings, KPV has shown:
Low toxicity
Good tolerability
No known hormonal or melanocortin-related side effects (unlike full α-MSH)
Important: This product is for research use only. Most evidence comes from animal studies and early research.
What KPV Does Not Do
❌ It is not anabolic
❌ Does not affect hormones
❌ Does not increase muscle or fat loss directly
❌ Not a painkiller, but reduces pain indirectly by lowering inflammation
References:
Getting SJ et al., J Immunol, 1999 163(10):5959–5967
Lipton JM et al., Ann NY Acad Sci, 2009 1170:123–130
Grieco P et al., Peptides, 2013 44:111–115
