KPV
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a C-terminal tripeptide fragment derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), specifically corresponding to residues 11–13 of the parent peptide. As a naturally occu...
Certificate of Analysis included with every order.
Technical Specifications
| Purity | ≥99% |
|---|---|
| Form | Lyophilized Powder |
| Storage | -20°C |
About This Peptide
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is a C-terminal tripeptide fragment derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), specifically corresponding to residues 11–13 of the parent peptide. As a naturally occurring sequence, KPV retains a subset of the biological activities associated with α-MSH while offering a simplified molecular scaffold amenable to mechanistic study. The compound belongs to the class of melanocortin-related peptides and is characterized by its compact, linear structure composed of the amino acids lysine, proline, and valine. Its low molecular weight and relative stability compared to the full-length neuropeptide have made KPV a subject of sustained interest in peptide biology research.
The scientific interest in KPV stems largely from observations that melanocortin peptides exert regulatory effects on a variety of cellular processes, including inflammatory signaling cascades. Researchers have noted that KPV retains anti-inflammatory properties independent of classical melanocortin receptor binding at MC1R or MC3R, suggesting the tripeptide may engage alternative intracellular mechanisms. This receptor-independent pathway has opened a distinct line of inquiry into how short peptide sequences can modulate cytokine environments in cell culture and preclinical models. Studies investigating intestinal epithelial biology have employed KPV to probe the intersection of neuropeptide signaling and mucosal immune regulation.
From a structural perspective, KPV is a non-cyclic tripeptide with a free N-terminus and C-terminus, distinguishing it from conformationally constrained melanocortin analogs. The proline residue at the central position introduces a characteristic backbone constraint that may influence peptide conformation and target engagement. Pepitiva Biolabs supplies KPV (internal code: KPV) at ≥99% purity as a lyophilized powder, providing researchers with a well-characterized starting material for in vitro assays, cell-based experiments, and formulation studies. Proper handling and storage at −20 °C are recommended to maintain peptide integrity over time.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Research Applications
≥99% purity. Lyophilized Powder. Storage: -20°C. For research purposes only.
Mechanism of Action
KPV is understood to exert its cellular effects partly through mechanisms distinct from canonical melanocortin receptor activation. Research data indicate that KPV can interfere with the NF-κB signaling pathway, a central transcriptional regulator of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Specifically, studies in epithelial and immune cell models have reported that KPV attenuates nuclear translocation of NF-κB subunits, leading to reduced transcription of downstream targets such as IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1β. This pathway-level interference positions KPV as a useful tool for dissecting the relationship between neuropeptide-derived sequences and inflammatory gene regulation in controlled experimental settings.
Additionally, KPV has been studied in the context of NLRP3 inflammasome modulation. Preclinical cell culture data suggest that the tripeptide may reduce inflammasome complex assembly or downstream caspase-1 activation, thereby limiting IL-18 and IL-1β maturation and secretion. Researchers have also investigated cellular uptake routes, with evidence pointing to PepT1 (SLC15A1) transporter-mediated internalization in intestinal epithelial cell lines—a finding that has implications for studying peptide bioavailability and intracellular signaling in gut epithelium models. These mechanistic insights continue to guide experimental design in studies using KPV as a pharmacological probe.
Research Applications
KPV is utilized across a range of preclinical and in vitro research contexts, particularly those focused on inflammatory signaling, epithelial biology, and neuropeptide pharmacology. Representative research application areas include:
- NF-κB pathway modulation studies: Investigating the capacity of KPV to attenuate NF-κB nuclear translocation and downstream cytokine gene expression in macrophage and epithelial cell line models.
- Intestinal epithelial inflammation models: Employing KPV in Caco-2 or T84 cell cultures to examine effects on barrier function markers and pro-inflammatory mediator release under stimulated conditions.
- NLRP3 inflammasome research: Using KPV as a probe compound to assess inflammasome assembly, caspase-1 activation, and IL-1β/IL-18 secretion in primary macrophage or monocyte preparations.
- Peptide transporter biology: Characterizing PepT1-mediated uptake kinetics of short peptides in intestinal epithelial cell models, with KPV serving as a defined substrate reference.
- Melanocortin fragment pharmacology: Comparing the receptor-binding profiles and functional outcomes of KPV against full-length α-MSH and synthetic melanocortin analogs to map structure–activity relationships.
- Cytokine profiling assays: Quantifying changes in multiplex cytokine panels (e.g., IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) in stimulated cell cultures treated with KPV to characterize concentration-dependent signaling effects.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain peptide integrity and ensure reliable research results. All Pepitiva Biolabs peptides are supplied as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, which provides excellent long-term stability when stored correctly. Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage or 2-8°C for short-term use. Once reconstituted, peptide solutions should be stored at 2-8°C and used within the timeframe specified in the product documentation. Always use sterile bacteriostatic water for reconstitution and handle peptides in a clean laboratory environment to prevent contamination. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as thermal stress can cause peptide degradation and loss of biological activity.
Quality Control & Certification
This product is manufactured under strict quality control protocols and has been verified through comprehensive analytical testing. Each batch undergoes reverse-phase HPLC analysis for purity determination and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) for molecular identity confirmation. A detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available for download, documenting purity percentage, molecular weight verification, appearance, and recommended storage conditions. Pepitiva Biolabs maintains batch-level traceability from synthesis through delivery, ensuring complete transparency and quality assurance for your research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product approved for human use?
No. This product is intended exclusively for in vitro scientific research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human or veterinary use, not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, and should not be administered to humans or animals under any circumstances.
How do I reconstitute this peptide?
Add sterile bacteriostatic water slowly to the vial, directing the stream against the glass wall rather than directly onto the lyophilized powder. Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved — do not shake vigorously. The recommended reconstitution volume depends on your desired concentration. Refer to the product documentation for specific guidance.
Can I get a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis is included with every order and is also available for download from the product page. The COA documents HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity confirmation, batch number, production date, and storage recommendations.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.