KPV

What it is

KPV is the last three amino acids of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It keeps much of the hormone's anti-inflammatory activity but does not cause skin darkening.

How it works

KPV enters cells through the PepT1 transporter, which is increased in inflamed intestinal tissue. Inside cells it reduces NF-κB signaling and the release of inflammatory cytokines.

What the research shows

• In mouse colitis models, oral KPV reduced inflammation and weight loss (Dalmasso et al., Gastroenterology, 2008).
• Lab studies show anti-inflammatory effects in skin and airway cells.
• No published controlled human trials.

Regulatory status

Not FDA-approved. In July 2026 the FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee voted 8 to 6 to recommend KPV for the compounding bulks list. On October 28, 2026, the Department of Health and Human Services announced an interim enforcement discretion policy covering KPV and five other peptides: it does not intend to take action against state-licensed pharmacies, federal facilities or licensed physicians that compound them under section 503A, as long as strict conditions are met. These include bulk material from an FDA-registered manufacturer with a certificate of analysis, a single active ingredient, only the routes of administration the policy lists, specific labeling and reporting of serious adverse events to the FDA. The policy does not add KPV to the 503A bulks list or approve any product, it does not cover 503B outsourcing facilities, and HHS says it may revisit the policy if safety or quality problems arise. Research-grade material is not a compounded drug product.

Storage and handling

Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder is most stable sealed, dry and protected from light. Laboratory practice is to keep unopened vials frozen at about -20 °C for long-term storage, or refrigerated at 2 to 8 °C for shorter periods. After reconstitution, keep the solution refrigerated at 2 to 8 °C, avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and use aseptic technique for every draw. Formal stability data in solution has not been published for most research peptides, so follow the supplier's label and certificate of analysis.

Reconstitution math

To work out concentration, volume and U-100 syringe units for any vial size, use the reconstitution calculator with KPV selected. Always confirm the vial content against the label and the batch's certificate of analysis.

Key references

• Dalmasso G et al. PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology. 2008.
• Search PubMed for KPV studies

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