What Is KPV? The Alpha-MSH Tripeptide Explained
KPV is a three-amino-acid fragment from the end of alpha-MSH, studied in inflammation, gut and skin models. Here is what it is, how it differs from Melanotan, and where it appears in blends.
What is KPV?
KPV is a tripeptide: lysine, proline and valine (Lys-Pro-Val). It is the last three amino acids (positions 11 to 13) of alpha-MSH, the same hormone that Melanotan is based on. Unlike Melanotan, KPV is not studied for pigmentation: research has focused on its anti-inflammatory activity.
- Sequence
- Lys-Pro-Val
- Length
- 3 amino acids
- Parent
- Alpha-MSH, residues 11-13
- Our vial
- 10mg
- Alpha-MSH13
- Melanotan II7
- KPV3
- GHK-Cu3
What does KPV research look at?
| Area | What studies looked at |
|---|---|
| Inflammation signalling | Cell studies on pathways such as NF-κB |
| Gut models | Mouse colitis studies, including uptake by the PepT1 transporter in gut cells |
| Skin models | Inflammation in skin cell models |
Like most research peptides, the evidence is from cells and animals.
KPV vs Melanotan and PT-141
| KPV | Melanotan II | PT-141 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From alpha-MSH | Last 3 amino acids | Cyclic 7-residue analogue | Cyclic 7-residue analogue |
| Pigmentation | No | Yes | Not its focus |
| Research focus | Inflammation | Melanocortin receptors | MC4 receptor |
See what is Melanotan and what is PT-141.
KPV in blends
KPV is the extra ingredient that turns the GLOW blend into KLOW. For what is in each blend, read GLOW vs KLOW. On its own we stock KPV in 10mg vials.
Further reading
For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical or legal advice.
