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What is KPV Peptide? Anti-Inflammatory Tripeptide Explained
Updated May 2026 · By the Onyx Biolabs Research Team · For laboratory research use only
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide (Lysine-Proline-Valine) derived from the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite its small size, KPV retains the anti-inflammatory activity of the parent hormone and is studied in preclinical research for inflammatory bowel disease, mast-cell inflammation, and topical inflammation applications.
How KPV works
KPV is a three-amino-acid sequence (Lys-Pro-Val) corresponding to the C-terminal of the larger α-MSH peptide. Despite containing only three amino acids, KPV retains the anti-inflammatory activity of the parent hormone — an unusual feature for such a small peptide.
At the cellular level, KPV downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inhibits NF-κB activation. In gut research models, KPV’s small size allows oral bioavailability and direct interaction with intestinal epithelial cells, which is why much of the published research focuses on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models. KPV also stabilizes mast cells, reducing histamine release in skin and gut research models.
KPV molecular properties
- Molecular weight: ~342.4 Da (theoretical, 3 amino acids)
- Sequence length: 3 amino acids (tripeptide: Lys-Pro-Val)
- Source: Synthetic; sequence derived from C-terminal of α-MSH
- Primary mechanism: Anti-inflammatory via NF-κB inhibition and cytokine downregulation
- Bioavailability: Oral and topical bioavailability is high due to small size
- Storage: Lyophilized at room temperature short-term, freezer (-20°C) long-term; reconstituted at 2–8°C for ~28 days
Research applications
- Inflammatory bowel disease models — the largest body of preclinical work; KPV reduces colonic inflammation in chemically-induced colitis models
- Mast-cell inflammation research — stabilizes mast cells, reducing histamine release
- Topical inflammation studies — eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis research
- Wound healing research — anti-inflammatory action supports faster recovery in animal models
- Blend research with BPC-157, GHK-Cu, TB-500 — the “Glow Blend” combines KPV with other regenerative peptides
How KPV compares to other anti-inflammatory research peptides
KPV is unique among research peptides for its combination of small size, oral bioavailability, and anti-inflammatory activity. Compared to BPC-157 (which is also studied for gut applications but works via angiogenesis), KPV operates via direct anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Researchers studying inflammation specifically often combine KPV with regenerative peptides like BPC-157 to address both the inflammation and the tissue repair in parallel.
Where to source research-grade KPV
Onyx Biolabs sells KPV research peptide in 10 mg vials with verified >99% purity. Also available in the Glow Blend combining KPV, BPC-157, GHK-Cu, and TB-500. Every batch is independently tested by Kovera Labs.
Frequently asked questions
What is KPV peptide?
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide (Lysine-Proline-Valine) derived from the C-terminal sequence of α-MSH. It is studied in preclinical research for anti-inflammatory applications, particularly inflammatory bowel disease and mast-cell-mediated inflammation.
What is the molecular weight of KPV?
Approximately 342.4 Daltons. KPV is one of the smallest peptides used in research.
How does KPV work?
KPV downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inhibits NF-κB activation. It also stabilizes mast cells, reducing histamine release.
What is KPV used for in research?
Primary research focus areas are inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models, mast-cell inflammation, topical inflammation (eczema, dermatitis), and wound healing.
Is KPV related to alpha-MSH?
Yes. KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide sequence (Lys-Pro-Val) of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The larger α-MSH has many biological activities; KPV isolates the anti-inflammatory component.
How long does reconstituted KPV stay stable?
Approximately 28 days at 2–8°C when reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Do not freeze reconstituted vials.
Is KPV legal to purchase in the United States?
KPV is sold legally in the United States as a research chemical for in-vitro and laboratory research use only.
Where can I buy research-grade KPV?
Onyx Biolabs sells KPV in 10 mg vials, plus the Glow Blend, all with independent Kovera Labs COAs at /product/kpv-peptide-anti-inflammatory/.
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Disclaimer
For research, laboratory, or analytical use only. The compound discussed is not approved for human or animal consumption. Statements on this page have not been evaluated by the FDA.