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
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