KPV
Also known as: Lys-Pro-Val, Alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide
Overview
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal active tripeptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties of full α-MSH but without the pigmentation and melanocortin signaling effects, making it highly targeted for gut and wound healing applications. Research has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects in inflammatory bowel disease models, and the peptide can be effectively delivered orally due to intestinal epithelial uptake via the PepT1 transporter.
Mechanism of Action
KPV exerts anti-inflammatory effects through multiple pathways: binding to melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on immune cells and epithelial cells; inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation in macrophages; reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β); and directly inhibiting inflammatory signaling in intestinal epithelial cells via PepT1-mediated uptake. The PepT1 transporter enables effective oral delivery to inflamed intestinal tissue.
Potential Benefits
- Potent anti-inflammatory effects in colitis and IBD models
- Oral bioavailability via intestinal PepT1 transporter
- Reduction of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β in gut inflammatory models
- Complement to BPC-157 in GI healing protocols
- Wound healing acceleration without melanocortin pigmentation effects
- Cytoprotective effects on intestinal epithelium
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 100-500 mcg/day |
| Beginner | 100-200 mcg/day oral or subcutaneous |
| Intermediate | 300-500 mcg/day |
| Advanced | 500-1000 mcg/day for inflammatory bowel conditions |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 weeks |
| Cycle Off | 4 weeks |
Oral KPV is effective for GI inflammation due to local intestinal action. Subcutaneous dosing for systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Lower doses effective for IBD-like conditions; higher doses for acute inflammation management.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Oral Moderate
Effective for GI tract inflammation; tripeptide size allows some survival through proteolytic degradation
Subcutaneous Injection High
Systemic anti-inflammatory effects; consistent bioavailability for skin and immune applications
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving KPV:
IBD and Gut Stack
Intestinal inflammation control, mucosal repair, and antimicrobial protection
All three can be orally administered to target the GI tract; complementary anti-inflammatory and healing mechanisms.
Skin Inflammation Stack
Psoriasis, eczema, and inflammatory skin condition management
KPV reduces NF-κB-driven skin inflammation; GHK-Cu promotes tissue repair and anti-inflammatory collagen remodeling.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 5mg, 10mg |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 5mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28-30 days refrigerated |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
Lys-Pro-Val (KPV)
Side Effects & Safety
- Very well-tolerated in available animal studies
- Minimal adverse effects reported
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside KPV for potential complementary or synergistic effects: