What is KPV?
KPV is an extremely short peptide consisting of lysine, proline and valine. It corresponds to the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone.
Why is KPV interesting?
Researchers became interested in KPV because the tripeptide appears to retain some biological activity associated with alpha-MSH without retaining the same pigmentary properties. Experimental work has examined NF-kB, pro-inflammatory cytokines, immune-cell signalling, intestinal inflammatory models and skin-related inflammation models.
Evidence status
Much of the evidence supporting KPV remains preclinical. Mechanistic and cellular research is promising, but robust human clinical evidence is limited.