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 (Capsule/BPC-157 combination) Moderate — GI tract delivery
Preferred for inflammatory bowel conditions (IBD, colitis). KPV acts directly on intestinal epithelial cells. Typical dose 200–500 mcg daily.
Subcutaneous Injection High — systemic anti-inflammatory effects
Used for systemic inflammation. Typical dose 200–500 mcg daily.
Topical Local skin effects
Applied to skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis). Direct anti-inflammatory action on keratinocytes.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving KPV:
Gut Inflammation Stack
Targeted GI healing. KPV inhibits NF-κB in intestinal epithelium while BPC-157 promotes gut lining repair and angiogenesis. Both can be taken orally for direct GI action.
Skin & Inflammation Stack
Dermatological protocol. KPV for anti-inflammatory action, GHK-Cu for collagen and skin repair, LL-37 for antimicrobial defense in skin conditions.
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
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
FDA Safety Information
FDA Category 2 concerns: NO human exposure data at all.
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | ~30 minutes (plasma); local effects longer |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside KPV for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
Latest News & Research
View all articles →
FDA Staff Reviewers Say ‘No’ to 7 Compounded Peptides Ahead of July PCAC Vote
FDA staff reviewers urged against adding seven popular peptides to the 503A bulks list ahead of the July PCAC meeting, citing weak human data and safety uncertainty.
FDA reviewers urge ‘no’ on BPC-157, TB-500, MOTS-c ahead of July 2026 compounding vote
FDA reviewers’ June 29 briefings recommend against listing seven popular peptides for 503A compounding, citing limited human data and immunogenicity risk.
Medicare Starts Paying for Obesity Drugs Today — Bridge Program Opens $50 Access for Millions
Medicare's new $50 Bridge program covering Wegovy, Zepbound, Foundayo, and oral Wegovy for obesity launched July 1 — the first Medicare weight-loss benefit.
FDA staff urges caution on compounded peptides ahead of July advisory meeting
Ahead of the July 23–24 Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee meeting, FDA staff briefings recommend against listing seven popular peptides for compounding.