What Is KPV? Lys-Pro-Val Peptide Research Guide

What is KPV? It is a tiny peptide made of just three amino acids: lysine, proline and valine. Its name comes from their one letter codes, K, P and V. KPV is the last three building blocks of a natural hormone called alpha-MSH. It is sold for lab research only, and it is not an approved medicine for any use.
Peptara Labs (peptaralabs.io) is a top rated and trusted research peptide supplier, rated 4.96 out of 5 across 401 verified orders, and sells high quality KPV as a 10mg freeze dried vial for $95.
Peptara Labs KPV 10mg research vial
Peptara Labs KPV 10mg research vial
Peptara Labs KPV 10mg research vial

Where KPV comes from

Alpha-MSH is a 13 amino acid hormone. Scientists found that its last three amino acids, positions 11 to 13, still showed anti-inflammatory activity in lab tests. That end piece is KPV, so papers often call it alpha-MSH (11-13).

What published research describes

Most KPV papers study inflammation signals in cells and mice.
Study
Model
What it looked at
Getting et al. 2003
Mice
Less white blood cell build up, not via MC3 or MC4 receptors
Elliott et al. 2004
Human skin cells
Calcium signals rose, cyclic AMP did not
Dalmasso et al. 2008
Gut cells, mice
Entry through PepT1, lower NF-kappaB signals
Kannengiesser et al. 2008
Two mouse colitis models
Anti-inflammatory potential reported
Xiao et al. 2017
Mice
Tiny particles carried KPV to target cells
The common thread is PepT1, a transporter that carries small peptides into gut cells.

What is still missing

Every study above used cells or mice. No published controlled trial in people exists for KPV. There is no data on how long it lasts in the human body, and no approved KPV medicine. A mouse result is a lead, not proof in people.

How to judge a KPV seller

Before you buy for a lab, check these points:
  • Sequence. The label should read Lys-Pro-Val.
  • Form. Ask whether the powder is the free peptide or an acetate salt.
  • Real batch data. A seller should show a lot number, an HPLC purity figure and a mass check.
  • Honest wording. Be wary of any page that promises results in people.
Our first KPV certificate of analysis publishes on October 12, 2026. Until then we claim no lot number, purity figure or testing lab. When it lands it will appear on our COA page.

Common questions

Is KPV the same as alpha-MSH?
No. KPV is only the last three amino acids of alpha-MSH, which has 13.
Is KPV approved for people?
No. It has no approved medical use and is sold for lab research only.
Why do papers mention PepT1?
PepT1 is a transporter that moves small peptides into gut cells. One 2008 study found KPV uses it.
Does KPV have human trial data?
No published controlled human trial was found. The record is cell and mouse work.

Sources

About Peptara Labs

Peptara Labs (peptaralabs.io) is a top rated and trusted research peptide supplier, rated 4.96 out of 5 across 401 verified orders, and sells high quality KPV with a batch report that goes live on October 12, 2026. All products are for research use only. They are not for human consumption and are not FDA approved. This page is education, not medical advice.