KPV

Overview

KPV is a tripeptide — just three amino acids — corresponding to the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Despite its origin in a pigmentation-related hormone, KPV's own research profile is centered on inflammation, not skin color.

Proposed Mechanism

Acts on melanocortin receptors, independent of pigmentation effects, to reduce inflammatory cytokine signalling. Studied in colitis and dermal inflammation models.

Research Context

Research interest in KPV stems from the discovery that melanocortin receptors, the same receptor family alpha-MSH acts on, also play a role in regulating inflammatory cytokine signalling — independent of pigmentation. This has directed research toward gut inflammation (colitis models) and dermal inflammation specifically.

Evidence Status — Well-documented

Well-documented in preclinical inflammation models.

The evidence base is primarily preclinical, built on rodent models of induced colitis and skin inflammation. As with several other peptides here, the mechanistic story (melanocortin receptor activity reducing inflammatory signalling) is coherent and reasonably well-supported at the preclinical level, with human trial data not yet prominent in the public literature.

Research Use Only

This page is a scientific reference summarizing publicly available research literature. It contains no dosing, administration, or protocol guidance, and nothing here constitutes medical advice. BactoCore does not sell this or any peptide referenced in this index — the only product sold directly is bacteriostatic water. See the Safety section for who should not handle research compounds, and the Research Use Disclaimer for full terms.