Tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val); C-terminal fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH); melanocortin-derived anti-inflammatory peptide
KPV
Investigationalaka Lysine-proline-valine, Lys-Pro-Val, alpha-MSH (11-13), KPV tripeptide
KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-MSH that retains much of the parent hormone's anti-inflammatory activity while being more stable. Its evidence base is preclinical (cell and rodent inflammatory-disease models); it is unapproved and, in the US, has been the subject of FDA compounding review.
Mechanism
KPV is reported to enter cells (in the gut partly via the PepT1 di/tripeptide transporter) and inhibit the NF-kappaB pathway, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-6) and reactive oxygen species; some activity is also attributed to melanocortin receptors (MC1R/MC3R). These mechanisms are established mainly in vitro and in animal models, not in controlled human studies.
Regulatory Status by Region
- United States (FDA)Not FDA-approved; was on the 503A Category 2 list, removed April 2026, and scheduled for Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee review (July 2026). On July 23, 2026, the committee voted 8-6, with one abstention, to recommend KPV (for wound treatment and inflammatory conditions) for the Section 503A Bulk Drug Substances List; the vote is advisory and non-binding, and the FDA had not made a final decision as of publication.
- Australia (TGA)No registered/approved product; an unapproved therapeutic substance.
- European Union (EMA)No EMA marketing authorisation.
- WADANot specifically named on the Prohibited List.
Key Studies
- PepT1-Mediated Tripeptide KPV Uptake Reduces Intestinal Inflammation (opens in a new tab) (Dalmasso et al., Gastroenterology 2008;134(1):166-178; PMCID PMC2431115)
- Orally Targeted Delivery of Tripeptide KPV via Hyaluronic Acid-Functionalized Nanoparticles Efficiently Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis (opens in a new tab) (Xiao et al., Molecular Therapy (Cell Press) 2017; PMCID PMC5498804)
- Lysine-Proline-Valine peptide mitigates fine dust-induced keratinocyte apoptosis and inflammation by modulating the MAPK/NF-kappaB pathway (opens in a new tab) (ScienceDirect 2025, article S004081662500117X)
Related Clinical Trials
- Prandial Metabolic Phenotype in AdultsN/A · Active Not Recruiting
- Plasma Free Amino Acids in Patients With Hepatic EncephalopathyN/A · Unknown
- The Effect of Acute Tryptophan Depletion (ATD) on Esophageal Sensitivity in Healthy VolunteersN/A · Completed
- The Role of Serotonin in Hot Flashes After Breast CancerN/A · Completed
Related News & Research
- FDA Advisory Panel Recommends Six of Seven Peptides for Compounding, Rejects Emideltide
- FDA Advisory Panel Votes to Recommend Compounding of BPC-157, TB-500 and Four Other Peptides, Rejects Emideltide
- FDA Advisory Committee to Weigh Compounding of BPC-157 and Other Research Peptides
- FDA Scientists Question Evidence for Peptides Backed by RFK Jr. Ahead of Advisory Panel
Common Questions
- What is KPV?
- KPV is a three-amino-acid fragment of the hormone alpha-MSH studied for anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory and animal models of colitis, dermatitis and wound healing. It has no completed human clinical trials and is not approved as a medicine anywhere; evidence remains preclinical.
- Is KPV approved for medical use?
- KPV is investigational: it is being studied in clinical research and is not an approved medicine. United States (FDA): Not FDA-approved; was on the 503A Category 2 list, removed April 2026, and scheduled for Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee review (July 2026). On July 23, 2026, the committee voted 8-6, with one abstention, to recommend KPV (for wound treatment and inflammatory conditions) for the Section 503A Bulk Drug Substances List; the vote is advisory and non-binding, and the FDA had not made a final decision as of publication. European Union (EMA): No EMA marketing authorisation. Australia (TGA): No registered/approved product; an unapproved therapeutic substance.
- How does KPV work?
- KPV is reported to enter cells (in the gut partly via the PepT1 di/tripeptide transporter) and inhibit the NF-kappaB pathway, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-6) and reactive oxygen species; some activity is also attributed to melanocortin receptors (MC1R/MC3R). These mechanisms are established mainly in vitro and in animal models, not in controlled human studies.
- Is KPV legal in Australia?
- KPV in Australia (TGA): No registered/approved product; an unapproved therapeutic substance.
- Is KPV banned in sport?
- KPV under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code: Not specifically named on the Prohibited List.