What Is KPV?
Research Use Only: KPV is intended strictly for in-vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption, medical treatment, or veterinary use. Read our full disclaimer.
What Is KPV?
KPV is a tripeptide fragment derived from the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). In laboratory research, KPV is studied for its interactions with melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R and MC3R, and its role in inflammatory pathway modulation, gut epithelial signalling and immune cell regulation in vitro.
Mechanism of Action
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) represents the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-MSH and retains melanocortin receptor binding activity despite its small size. In laboratory models, KPV engages MC1R and MC3R, activating cAMP-dependent signalling pathways that modulate NF-kB activity and downstream inflammatory cytokine expression in immune and epithelial cell models.
Melanocortin Receptor Engagement
KPV binds to melanocortin receptors expressed on immune cells, intestinal epithelial cells and other cell types relevant to inflammatory research. MC1R and MC3R activation by KPV in laboratory models is associated with suppression of pro-inflammatory signalling cascades, making it a useful tool compound for studying melanocortin-mediated anti-inflammatory pathways.
NF-kB Pathway Modulation
Laboratory studies examine KPV's effects on NF-kB activation, a central transcription factor in inflammatory signalling. KPV-mediated MC receptor activation in experimental models is associated with reduced NF-kB nuclear translocation and downstream cytokine production, providing a mechanistic readout for anti-inflammatory pathway research.
Research Applications
Inflammatory Pathway Research
KPV is used in laboratory models to study melanocortin receptor-mediated modulation of inflammatory signalling. It is relevant to research examining NF-kB pathway regulation, cytokine expression and immune cell activation in controlled experimental settings.
Gut Epithelial Research
KPV is studied in intestinal epithelial cell models for its effects on barrier function, inflammatory signalling and epithelial cell responses to inflammatory stimuli. It is a relevant tool compound for gut biology research examining melanocortin receptor expression and function in the intestinal epithelium.
Immune Cell Signalling
Laboratory investigations use KPV to study melanocortin receptor signalling in macrophages, dendritic cells and other immune cell types. These studies examine how MC receptor activation modulates cytokine production, phagocytosis and immune cell polarisation in vitro.
Structural Characteristics
KPV is a tripeptide with the sequence Lys-Pro-Val (MW approximately 341 Da). Its small size and water solubility make it straightforward to work with in cell culture systems. As the C-terminal fragment of alpha-MSH, it retains the core receptor-binding pharmacophore of the parent peptide while offering a simpler molecular tool for mechanistic studies.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilised KPV at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with sterile water or appropriate buffer prior to use. Use the Concentration Calculator to determine the correct volume for your target concentration. Follow institutional laboratory protocols for handling and disposal.
Quality & Documentation
Solatide Biosciences KPV is independently third-party tested to >=99% purity, verified by HPLC and mass spectrometry. A Certificate of Analysis is available on the product page.
Related Compounds
Research Use Only: All compounds are manufactured for in-vitro laboratory research and are not intended for human consumption, medical use, or veterinary applications. Full disclaimer.