KPV

Research overview

KPV is a three-residue peptide, Lys-Pro-Val, corresponding to the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (residues 11 to 13). It is studied in melanocortin-pathway signalling and in inflammatory pathways in cultured epithelial and immune cells, where it serves as a small, well-defined sequence. Supplied at 5mg as a lyophilised powder for in-vitro laboratory research only.

KPV sits at the C-terminal end of alpha-MSH and is described in the literature as keeping some of the anti-inflammatory activity of the parent hormone without the pigmentary activity linked to the N-terminal region. In epithelial and immune cell cultures it has been reported to reduce NF-kappaB activation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Reports also suggest it can enter cells through peptide transporters such as PepT1. Whether it acts through melanocortin receptors is not settled.

Laboratory models include lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages and intestinal epithelial cell lines, where cytokine release, NF-kappaB reporter activity and transporter uptake are measured. Tripeptides are also used as small test molecules in permeability and peptide-transporter assays, and as reference standards when mapping which part of a hormone sequence carries activity. KPV is supplied as a lyophilised powder in a 5mg vial.

Research areas

• NF-kappaB signalling in epithelial and immune cells
• Cytokine release in stimulated macrophage cultures
• Peptide transporter (PepT1) uptake studies
• Melanocortin pathway pharmacology
• Alpha-MSH fragment structure-activity work

Specifications

CAS number

67727-97-3

Molecular formula

C15H26N4O4

Sequence

Lys-Pro-Val (KPV)

Form

lyophilised powder

Purity

≥99% (HPLC)

Also known as

KPV, Lys-Pro-Val, α-MSH (11-13), α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone fragment

Supplied as

5mg per vial, lyophilised powder

Storage and handling

Store the lyophilised powder cold, dry and protected from light, and let the vial reach room temperature before opening. Reconstitute with an appropriate laboratory diluent and keep reconstituted material cold.

Certificates of analysis

Each lot of KPV is released with a certificate recording identity and purity. Enter the lot number printed on your vial on the lab testing page to view it.

Questions