Overview

KPV is a tripeptide fragment derived from α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), specifically composed of Lysine, Proline, and Valine. This peptide exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it has been studied as a promising therapeutic agent for various inflammatory conditions, particularly in skin and gastrointestinal health.

Key Benefits of KPV

• Anti-Inflammatory Action: KPV acts through the PepT1 oligopeptide transporter, which is highly expressed in the intestinal epithelium, allowing KPV to reach cytosolic targets effectively. This makes KPV valuable for treating inflammation, especially in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and chronic ulcerative colitis.
• Antimicrobial Properties: Demonstrates effective antimicrobial activity, particularly beneficial for individuals with inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis.
• Psoriasis Relief: Provides symptom relief from the itchiness, redness, and skin peeling associated with psoriasis, offering an alternative to long-term steroid treatments.
• Potential Cancer and Inflammation Modulation: Studies suggest KPV may also exhibit anti-tumorigenic properties, making it a candidate for future cancer therapies, particularly for colon cancer and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Mechanism of Action

KPV exerts its effects primarily through the PepT1-mediated pathway in intestinal and immune cells. This pathway is significant in the colon epithelium, particularly in conditions like chronic ulcerative colitis, where PepT1 is overexpressed. This mechanism allows KPV to penetrate the intestinal cytosol and modulate inflammation. Unlike α-MSH, KPV lacks pigmentary effects, making it ideal for therapeutic use without side effects on skin pigmentation.

Clinical Research

Anti-Inflammatory and Protective Effects

Research has shown that α-MSH and its related tripeptides like KPV have potent anti-inflammatory effects, acting through melanocortin receptors that influence immune responses. KPV specifically affects various pathways regulating inflammation, such as NF-κB activation, cytokine production, and inflammatory cell migration. The anti-inflammatory benefits have been demonstrated in animal models with conditions including dermatitis, IBD, fibrosis, and arthritis.

In addition, KPV’s lack of pigmentary effects and reduced risk of long-term steroid complications makes it a viable alternative for chronic inflammatory conditions in the skin and gastrointestinal tract.

Product Information

• Product Name: KPV Peptide (Lysine-Proline-Valine)
• Applications:
  • Anti-inflammatory treatment for immune-mediated inflammatory conditions
  • Potential therapeutic for inflammatory skin and bowel diseases
  • Relief for psoriasis symptoms
  • Research candidate for colon cancer therapies and other immune-related diseases
• Mode of Action: PepT1-mediated transport in intestinal and immune cells for targeted anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action
• Compatibility: Ideal for long-term use as a non-steroidal option for inflammatory conditions