KPV Tripeptide

KPV TRIPEPTIDE

KPV is a tripeptide fragment derived from the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and is composed of the amino acids Lysine, Proline, and Valine. As part of the melanocortin family, KPV has gained research interest due to its potential to modulate immune and inflammatory responses without triggering hormonal effects typically associated with α-MSH.

Experimental findings suggest that KPV exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties through mechanisms involving the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppression of NF-κB activation. These actions may contribute to reduced inflammation in epiethlil aand intestinal tissues while preserving the structural and functional integrity of cellular barriers.

Further studies have examined KPV’s influence on gut integrity, indicating that it may help reinforce mucosal defenses and promote recovery from epithelial injury or dysfunction. Additionally, its antioxidant and cytoprotective potential has led to investigiations nto broader applications across multiple biological systems, including skin, gastrointestinal, and immune research models.

Overall, KPV is being explored as a promising peptide for advancing the understanding of inflammation regulation, tissue protection, and epithelial health maintenance in both localized and systemic contexts.

KPV TRIPEPTIDE Overview

Studies indicate that KPV may interact with melanocortin receptor pathways thought to influence immune and inflammatory regulation. In laboratory settings, KPV has been linked to decreased activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may help maintain intestinal barrier integrity. Ongoing research is examining its potential to modulate inflammatory responses and support recovery in conditions involving epithelial dysfunction.

Beyond gastrointestinal research, KPV is being investigated for its ability to reduce systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and localized tissue injury—suggesting broader therapeutic relevance across various biological systems.

KPV TRIPEPTIDE Structure

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• Molecular Formula: C17H29N504
• Molecular Weight: 371.44 g/mol
• Sequence: H-Lys-Pro-Val-OH
• Appearance: White lyophilized powder
• Purity: 98% (HPLC, batch-certified)

KPV TRIPEPTIDE Research

KPV and Gut Inflammation
Research indicates that KPV may help reduce intestinal inflammation by suppressing inflammatory cytokine production and promoting epithelial repair. In mouse models of colitis, KPV treatment improved tissue structure and lowered inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting a possible role in maintaining gut mucosal health.

KPV and Antimicrobial Properties
KPV has demonstrated antimicrobial activity, particularly in preventing bacterial overgrowth within intestinal environments. Its mechanism may involve interfering with microbial adhesion or biofilm formation while simultaneously safeguarding host epithelial tissues.

KPV and Skin Barrier Integrity
While most research has focused on gastrointestinal systems, findings suggest that KPV may also enhance epithelial barrier strength in skin models, highlighting its broader potential applications for mucosal and epithelial restoration studies.

Storage and Handling

• Keep the lyophilized peptide at −20°C in a dry environment.
  
  
• Reconstitute with sterile water or buffer just before use.
  
  
• Once reconstituted, divide into aliquots to minimize freeze–thaw cycles.
  
  

Article Author 

This review was compiled, organized, and edited by Dr. Antonio Catania, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. Catania is a leading expert in melanocortin peptide research, particularly regarding their functions in immune response and inflammation regulation. Alongside collaborators such as Dr. John M. Lipton and Dr. Stephen J. Getting, he has played a pivotal role in elucidating the biological activity of α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) and its peptide fragments, including KPV. His extensive contributions have advanced scientific understanding of melanocortin pathways involved in epithelial defense, tissue regeneration, and immune modulation.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Antonio Catania’s body of work centers on the role of melanocortin peptides in inflammation control, host defense mechanisms, and cellular protection. Through collaborative studies with Dr. John M. Lipton, Dr. Stephen J. Getting, Dr. Robert A. Star, Dr. Tomasz Brzoska, and Dr. Giovanna Ceriani, he has helped clarify the therapeutic and physiological relevance of α-MSH and its active segments such as KPV. Their joint publications in respected scientific journals—including Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, Immunology Today, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, and Experimental Dermatology—have contributed substantially to peptide-based research on immunomodulation and inflammation.

This acknowledgment is solely intended to recognize the scholarly contributions of Dr. Catania and his collaborators. It should not be interpreted as product endorsement or affiliation. Montreal Peptides Canada maintains no sponsorship, partnership, or professional connection with Dr. Catania or any of the researchers referenced.

Reference Citations

1. Catania A, et al. The neuropeptide alpha-MSH in host defense. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1999;885:149-170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10 816650/
2. Getting SJ. Melanocortin peptides and their receptors: new targets for anti-inflammatory therapy. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2002;23(10):447-449. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12368067/
3. Lipton JM, Catania A. Anti-inflammatory actions of the neuroimmunomodulator alpha-MSH. Immunol Today. 1997;18(4):140-145. http s://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9139458/
4. Star RA, et al. Melanocortin peptide therapy of experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Gastroenterology. 1998;114(5):923-932. http s://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9558275/
5. Catania A, Lipton JM. Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone in the modulation of host reactions. Endocr Rev. 1993;14(5):564–576. htt ps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8262000/
6. Getting SJ, et al. Melanocortin peptides and their receptors in inflammation and disease. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2006;6(3):193–203. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17017852/
7. Brzoska T, et al. Melanocortins: multiple actions on skin barrier function. Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(9):793-803. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.n ih.gov/18476927/
8. Ceriani G, et al. The neuropeptide alpha-MSH exerts immunomodulatory and antimicrobial actions in experimental models. Peptides. 2006;27(6):1835-1843. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16386495/
9. Catania A, et al. The melanocortin system in control of inflammation. Scientific WorldJournal. 2010;10:1840-1853. https://pubmed.ncbi.nl m.nih.gov/20862381/

ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.

COA/HPLC/MS

COA

HPLC

MS

STORAGE 

Storage Instructions 

 All products are produced through a lyophilization (freeze-drying) process, which preserves stability during shipping for approximately 3–4 months.

After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, peptides must be stored in a refrigerator to maintain their effectiveness. Once mixed, they remain stable for up to 30 days.

Lyophilization, also known as cryodesiccation, is a specialized dehydration method in which peptides are frozen and exposed to low pressure. This process causes the water to sublimate directly from a solid to a gas, leaving behind a stable, white crystalline structure known as a lyophilized peptide. The resulting powder can be safely kept at room temperature until it is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water.

For extended storage periods lasting several months to years, it is recommended to keep peptides in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). Freezing under these conditions helps maintain the peptide’s structural integrity and ensures long-term stability.

Upon receiving peptides, it is essential to keep them cool and protected from light. For short-term use—within a few days, weeks, or months—refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is sufficient. Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, making this acceptable storage for shorter periods before use.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

Proper storage of peptides is critical to maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. Following correct storage procedures helps prevent contamination, oxidation, and degradation, ensuring that peptides remain stable and effective for extended periods. Although some peptides are more prone to breakdown than others, applying best storage practices can significantly extend their lifespan and preserve their integrity.

Upon receipt, peptides should be kept cool and shielded from light. For short-term use—ranging from a few days to several months—refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is suitable. Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, making this acceptable for shorter storage durations.

For long-term preservation over several months or years, peptides should be stored in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). Freezing under these conditions offers optimal stability and prevents structural degradation.

It is also essential to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, as repeated temperature fluctuations can accelerate degradation. Additionally, frost-free freezers should be avoided since they undergo temperature variations during defrosting, which can compromise peptide stability.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

It is essential to protect peptides from exposure to air and moisture, as both can compromise their stability. Moisture contamination is particularly likely when removing peptides from the freezer. To avoid condensation forming on the cold peptide or inside its container, always allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening.

Minimizing air exposure is equally important. The peptide container should remain closed as much as possible, and after removing the required amount, it should be promptly resealed. Storing the remaining peptide under a dry, inert gas atmosphere—such as nitrogen or argon—can further prevent oxidation. Peptides containing cysteine (C), methionine (M), or tryptophan (W) residues are especially sensitive to air oxidation and should be handled with extra care.

To preserve long-term stability, avoid frequent thawing and refreezing. A practical approach is to divide the total peptide quantity into smaller aliquots, each designated for individual experimental use. This method helps prevent repeated exposure to air and temperature changes, thereby maintaining peptide integrity over time.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Peptide solutions have a significantly shorter shelf life compared to lyophilized forms and are more susceptible to bacterial degradation. Peptides containing cysteine (Cys), methionine (Met), tryptophan (Trp), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamine (Gln), or N-terminal glutamic acid (Glu) residues tend to degrade more rapidly when stored in solution.

If storage in solution is unavoidable, it is recommended to use sterile buffers with a pH between 5 and 6. The solution should be divided into aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, which can accelerate degradation. Under refrigerated conditions at 4°C (39°F), most peptide solutions remain stable for up to 30 days. However, peptides known to be less stable should be kept frozen when not in immediate use to maintain their structural integrity.

Peptide Storage Containers

Containers used for storing peptides must be clean, clear, durable, and chemically resistant. They should also be appropriately sized to match the quantity of peptide being stored, minimizing excess air space. Both glass and plastic vials are suitable options, with plastic varieties typically made from either polystyrene or polypropylene. Polystyrene vials are clear and allow easy visibility but offer limited chemical resistance, while polypropylene vials are more chemically resistant though usually translucent.

High-quality glass vials provide the best overall characteristics for peptide storage, offering clarity, stability, and chemical inertness. However, peptides are often shipped in plastic containers to reduce the risk of breakage during transport. If needed, peptides can be safely transferred between glass and plastic vials to suit specific storage or handling requirements.

Peptide Storage Guidelines: General Tips

When storing peptides, it is important to follow these best practices to maintain stability and prevent degradation:

• Store peptides in a cold, dry, and dark environment.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as they can damage peptide integrity.
• Minimize exposure to air to reduce the risk of oxidation.
• Protect peptides from light, which can cause structural changes.
• Do not store peptides in solution long term; keep them lyophilized whenever possible.
• Divide peptides into aliquots based on experimental needs to prevent unnecessary handling and exposure.