KPV

α-MSH-derived Tripeptide for Localized Anti-Inflammatory Research

KPV (sequence: H-Lys-Pro-Val-OH) is a synthetic tripeptide representing the C-terminal 11-13 fragment of the endogenous neuroimmunomodulatory hormone α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH). While full-length α-MSH exerts broad anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects primarily through activation of melanocortin receptors (MC1R and MC3-5R), the KPV fragment appears to act through distinct, receptor-independent mechanisms in research models. Its small size and specific charge distribution allow it to interact directly with cellular targets involved in inflammatory signaling. In laboratory settings, KPV serves as a focused tool for investigating localized anti-inflammatory pathways, particularly in mucosal and dermal tissues. Research suggests it may inhibit NF-κB translocation, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and enhance the expression of anti-inflammatory mediators. Supplied as a lyophilized powder in a larger 50mg quantity suitable for topical/oral formulation research, this peptide is intended strictly for controlled, non-human laboratory studies exploring targeted, localized intervention in inflammatory conditions.

Complete Research Kit Contents & Verification

Each research order provides a complete experimental package designed for inflammation and formulation research:

• Primary Research Compound: 10 sterile glass vials containing 50mg of lyophilized KPV peptide powder per vial. Note: The 50mg size is appropriate for topical/oral formulation studies requiring higher peptide mass.

• Reconstitution Solution: 30ml vial of sterile Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% Benzyl Alcohol) or phosphate-buffered saline for experimental use.

• Laboratory Administration Tools: Pack of sterile 1ml insulin syringes (29G x 1/2″) for precise measurement and formulation.

• Sterilization Supplies: Individually wrapped alcohol prep swabs.

• Research Protocol Documentation:

  • Dosing Schedule/Formulation Guide: Protocol for administering KPV in research models, with emphasis on local/topical/oral administration (e.g., enema models for colitis, topical application for dermatitis, oral gavage for gut barrier studies). Includes typical research concentrations.

  • Usage Instructions: Comprehensive guide covering reconstitution, stability in various vehicles (creams, gels, solutions for gavage), storage conditions (-20°C recommended), and handling safety.

• Quality Verification: Certificate of Analysis (CoA) provided with each batch, detailing:

  • Purity Analysis (>98% by HPLC)

  • Amino Acid Sequence Verification (Mass Spectrometry) – Critical for this short sequence.

  • Molecular Weight: 342.4 Da Confirmed

  • Sterility Testing Results (Optional but recommended for in-vivo mucosal studies)

  • Endotoxin Levels (<10 EU/mg) – Important for inflammation research to avoid confounding results.

  • Residual Solvent Analysis

  • Net Peptide Content

  • Chiral Purity (L-amino acids)

Research Applications & Scientific Utility

In a laboratory setting, KPV enables investigation into a minimalist, localized approach to inflammation. Primary research applications include:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Models: Researching effects in chemical-induced colitis models (DSS, TNBS), measuring disease activity index, colon histology, myeloperoxidase activity, and cytokine profiles in gut tissue.

• Dermatitis & Skin Inflammation: Studying topical efficacy in models of contact dermatitis, psoriasis, or atopic dermatitis, assessing ear thickness, cytokine levels, and histological changes.

• Gut Barrier Function: Investigating protection against barrier disruption and “leaky gut” in models of intestinal inflammation or infection.

• Mechanistic Studies: Exploring its direct interaction with inflammatory signaling pathways (e.g., inhibition of IκBα degradation, NF-κB nuclear translocation) in cell culture models of macrophages or epithelial cells.

• Comparative Studies: Serving as a minimalist counterpart to full-length α-MSH or other anti-inflammatory peptides (e.g., BPC-157) to dissect receptor-dependent vs. independent actions.

Laboratory Handling & Safety Protocol

• Storage: Store unopened lyophilized peptide vials at -20°C or below. The tripeptide is chemically stable. Reconstituted solutions for in-vivo use should be aliquoted and stored at -20°C.

• Reconstitution: Perform under sterile conditions if for in-vivo use. The peptide is highly soluble. Swirl gently.

• Laboratory Safety: Standard PPE is required.

• Formulation for Local Delivery: Researchers should have expertise in formulating for specific local routes (rectal, topical, oral) to ensure proper delivery and stability in the research model.

⚠️ Critical Compliance & Intended Use Disclaimer:

THIS PRODUCT IS SOLD FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY (RUO). NOT FOR HUMAN OR VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC OR THERAPEUTIC USE.

1. Intended Use: KPV is supplied as a biochemical reagent for laboratory research purposes only. It is intended for use by qualified researchers in controlled settings studying immunology and inflammatory mechanisms. The “dosing schedule” refers to research model protocols only.

2. Not for Human Consumption: Under no circumstances is this product intended for human or animal therapeutic use. It is not a treatment for IBD, colitis, dermatitis, or any inflammatory condition. The provided supplies are for laboratory formulation and measurement.

3. Regulatory Status: This product has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA or any health authority for any use.

4. Local vs. Systemic: The research focus of KPV is on localized effects. This should be emphasized to differentiate it from systemic anti-inflammatory drugs.

5. Researcher Responsibility: The purchaser assumes full responsibility for compliance with all regulations and for ensuring this compound is used only for legitimate, non-human research