KPV 10mg

Overview

KPV is the tripeptide Lys-Pro-Val, corresponding to residues 11–13 of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Although it lacks the core His-Phe-Arg-Trp motif required for melanocortin-receptor activation, KPV retains several of the immunomodulatory properties of the parent hormone in published cell and animal models, which has made it a popular minimal peptide for inflammation research.

Acu Aminos supplies KPV as a 10 mg lyophilized powder for laboratory use.

Chemistry & specifications

KPV is a small, linear, unmodified tripeptide. The proline residue introduces a conformational constraint, and the lysine side-chain provides a positive charge at physiological pH. Its small size allows uptake by the oligopeptide transporter PepT1, a mechanism demonstrated in intestinal epithelial cell models.

Cellular structure & mechanism of action

Published in-vitro work indicates that KPV enters epithelial and immune cells via PepT1 and interferes with NF-κB activation, reducing the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in stimulated cell lines. Because these effects occur independently of the classical melanocortin receptors, KPV is often used to dissect receptor-independent pathways of α-MSH-derived peptides. Murine colitis models have been used to study its effects on intestinal inflammation.

Research applications

• NF-κB reporter and cytokine-release assays in epithelial and macrophage lines
• PepT1 transport and intestinal-epithelial barrier models
• Melanocortin-receptor-independent signaling studies
• Experimental colitis and mucosal-inflammation research

Selected references

1. Brzoska T, Luger TA, Maaser C, Abels C, Böhm M. α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone and related tripeptides: biochemistry, antiinflammatory and protective effects in vitro and in vivo, and future perspectives for the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Endocr Rev. 2008;29(5):581–602.
2. Kannengiesser K, Maaser C, Heidemann J, et al. Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2008;14(3):324–331.
3. Dalmasso G, Charrier-Hisamuddin L, Nguyen HT, et al. PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology. 2008;134(1):166–178.

References are provided to help researchers locate primary literature. Acu Aminos makes no claims about the safety or efficacy of any compound in humans or animals.