What is KPV?

KPV is a research tripeptide made of three amino acids: lysine, proline and valine (Lys-Pro-Val). It corresponds to the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring melanocortin peptide, which is why it is often described as a melanocortin-derived tripeptide.

HAUZ Research supplies KPV as a 10 mg lyophilized peptide with CAS number 67727-97-3, molecular formula C16H30N4O4 and a molecular weight of 342.4 g/mol.

Origins and structure

KPV came out of research into the smallest active fragments of α-MSH. Because it is only three amino acids long, it has also been studied in relation to PepT1, a transporter in the intestinal lining that carries di- and tripeptides into cells (Dalmasso et al., 2008).

Areas of laboratory research

• Intestinal cell and mouse models. Researchers have studied KPV uptake through the PepT1 transporter in intestinal epithelial cells and its effects in mouse models of colitis (Dalmasso et al., 2008).
• Inflammatory signaling in murine models. KPV has been examined in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease, with measurements of inflammatory markers (Kannengiesser et al., 2008).

These are cell-culture and mouse findings, as reported by the study authors. For more, see our KPV research guide and the article KPV and gut epithelial research.

Quality and verification

Every HAUZ Research lot of KPV is independently tested for HPLC purity (99%+), identity by mass spectrometry, and endotoxin, and its certificate of analysis is kept in the COA Library. It is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a sealed vial. For research use only — not for human or veterinary use.

Frequently asked questions

What is KPV studied for in research?

Published studies have examined KPV mainly in intestinal epithelial cells and mouse models of colitis and inflammatory bowel disease, including its uptake through the PepT1 transporter.

What is the CAS number of KPV?

The CAS number of KPV is 67727-97-3. Its molecular formula is C16H30N4O4 and its molecular weight is 342.4 g/mol.

Is KPV approved for human use?

No. KPV is not an FDA-approved drug. It is sold for laboratory research only and is not for human or veterinary use.

Published Research Summary

KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Laboratory studies have examined its uptake through the intestinal peptide transporter PepT1 and its effects in intestinal epithelial cells and mouse colitis models (PMID 18061177), and its activity in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease (PMID 18092346). These are preclinical cell-culture and mouse findings.

All citations reference published literature. Not a claim of efficacy.

Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C. Stable for 36 months. Upon reconstitution, store at 4°C and use within 30 days.