For the regulatory discussion specific to KPV and other compounds considered by the FDA advisory panel, read FDA Advisory Panel Votes to Recommend BPC-157, TB-500, KPV, and MOTS-c for Compounding.
What Is KPV?
KPV is a C-terminal tripeptide fragment (Lys-Pro-Val) of α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH). It retains α-MSH's anti-inflammatory and melanocortin receptor-binding properties in a minimally sized, highly stable three-amino-acid peptide. Its small size gives it favorable penetration properties — including ability to reach colonic mucosal cells when given orally — that full-length α-MSH lacks.
Mechanism of Action
KPV exerts its anti-inflammatory effects through MC1R and MC3R (melanocortin receptors 1 and 3) activation, which suppresses NF-κB signaling — the master transcription factor driving inflammation — reducing production of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also promotes regulatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes in macrophages and T-cells.
IBD and Skin Research
KPV has been studied extensively for IBD because its small size allows it to survive the GI tract and reach inflamed colonic mucosa when taken orally or administered via enema. Animal studies using murine colitis models demonstrate dramatically reduced colonic inflammation and improved colon histology scores. For skin conditions including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, KPV's melanocortin receptor activation reduces keratinocyte-driven inflammation and promotes healing responses.
Quick Reference
Member reference tables summarize the compound's research parameters.
Research Indications
Research Protocols
As reported in cited literature and research-community logs (see Research Citations below), not a personal dosing recommendation.
This member section describes parameters reported in the research literature.
Peptide Interactions
This member section summarizes reported compound interactions and evidence limitations.
Reported Research Time Points
This member section summarizes reported research time points.
Safety Notes
Included for harm-reduction awareness only, in the event this compound is encountered outside its labeled research use. Inclusion here does not imply RUO Codes endorses, recommends, or instructs human use.
This member section discusses research safety considerations and uncertainties.
Quality Indicators
Research Citations
- Antimicrobial Properties Against Gut Pathogens (2022)
In vitro | Multiple bacterial strains | MIC determination - KPV for Psoriasis and Dermatitis (2021)
Human cells + Animal model | Topical application | 4 weeks - Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of KPV (2020)
In vitro | Various concentrations | Cell culture studies - KPV in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Models (2019)
Animal model | Oral and injection | 14 days | Colitis model - Transdermal Iontophoretic Delivery of Lysine-Proline-Valine (KPV) Peptide Across Microporated Human Skin
Pawar K, Kolli CS, Rangari VK, 2017, J Pharm Sci - Lysine-Proline-Valine peptide mitigates fine dust-induced keratinocyte apoptosis and inflammation by regulating oxidative stress and modulating the MAPK/NF-κB pathway
Sung J, Ju SY, Park S, 2025, Tissue Cell - Inflammation-triggered self-immolative conjugates enable oral peptide delivery by overcoming gastrointestinal barriers
Cheng J, Wu P, Li C, 2026, Sci Adv - The neuroimmunomodulatory peptide alpha-MSH
Ichiyama T, Sato S, Okada K, 2000, Ann N Y Acad Sci - Drug-loaded nanoparticles targeted to the colon with polysaccharide hydrogel reduce colitis in a mouse model
Laroui H, Dalmasso G, Nguyen HT, 2010, Gastroenterology