KPV

The tripeptide KPV derived from alpha-MSH inhibits inflammatory cytokine production and intestinal epithelial permeability in vitro^[1]

This in vitro study investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of the alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide KPV (Lys-Pro-Val) in human intestinal epithelial cells (Caco-2) stimulated with pro-inflammatory cytokines. KPV at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations reduced secretion of IL-8 and TNF-alpha in a concentration-dependent manner. Transepithelial electrical resistance measurements demonstrated that KPV preserved epithelial barrier integrity following inflammatory challenge. The authors attributed these effects to partial agonism at MC1R and inhibition of NF-kB p65 nuclear translocation, identifying KPV as a minimal bioactive unit of the parent alpha-MSH peptide.

Last verified: 2026-04-03

Oral delivery of nanoparticle-encapsulated KPV reduces intestinal inflammation in an experimental colitis model^[2]

Researchers developed a nanoparticle delivery system for oral KPV and evaluated its efficacy in a DSS-induced murine colitis model. KPV-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were evaluated by gavage and demonstrated significantly improved mucosal delivery compared to free peptide. Research subjects showed reduced histological colitis scores, decreased colon myeloperoxidase activity (a marker of neutrophil infiltration), and lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in colonic tissue. The study demonstrated that nanoparticle encapsulation overcomes KPV's short half-life to achieve investigational tissue concentrations via the oral route.

Last verified: 2026-04-03