What KPV is
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) consists of the last three amino acids of alpha-MSH (positions 11-13). Alpha-MSH has both pigmentation and anti-inflammatory effects. KPV retains potent anti-inflammatory activity while lacking melanocortin receptor affinity, no skin tanning side effect.
Mechanism, in plain English
Enters cells and inhibits NF-kB inflammatory signaling by interacting with the IKK complex. This prevents degradation of IkappaB, keeping NF-kB suppressed. Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha) and inflammatory enzymes (iNOS, COX-2). Works through a melanocortin receptor-independent pathway.
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Animal studies: reduces colitis inflammation (IBD models), accelerates wound healing topically. In vitro: inhibits inflammatory cytokines in intestinal epithelial cells, macrophages, microglia. Oral nanoparticle delivery reduced colitis severity comparably to steroids in mice. No published human clinical trials. Used in biohacking's 'KLOW stack.'
FDA status
Not FDA-approved. No human clinical trials registered. Research-stage compound.
Common synonyms
KPV, Lys-Pro-Val, alpha-MSH(11-13)
Safety and adverse-event landscape
No human safety data from trials. Animal studies show good tolerability. Naturally occurring alpha-MSH fragment. Unregulated products have unknown purity.
Frequently asked questions
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