KPV Peptide Benefits Research

KPV Peptide Benefits Research

The tripeptide KPV (lysine-proline-valine) has garnered attention for its significant anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other inflammatory conditions. KPV is a C-terminal fragment of the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), which is known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects.
One of the primary benefits of KPV is its ability to attenuate inflammatory responses in colonic cells, making it a promising therapeutic agent for ulcerative colitis (UC). A study demonstrated that KPV, when delivered via hyaluronic acid-functionalized nanoparticles, effectively targeted colonic epithelial cells and macrophages, leading to reduced inflammation and accelerated mucosal healing in a mouse model of UC.[1]
This targeted delivery system enhances the therapeutic efficacy of KPV while minimizing potential systemic side effects.
In murine models of IBD, KPV has shown significant anti-inflammatory potential. Treatment with KPV led to earlier recovery, weight regain, and reduced histological inflammation in models of DSS colitis and CD45RB(hi) transfer colitis. These effects were observed to be partially independent of melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) signaling, suggesting alternative pathways for its anti-inflammatory action.[2]
KPV also exhibits potential in treating chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis. A mucoadhesive hydrogel containing KPV demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue-repairing effects, significantly improving the condition in a rat model. This hydrogel formulation allowed for sustained release and localized action of KPV, enhancing its therapeutic benefits.[3]
Additionally, KPV has been explored for transdermal delivery using iontophoresis and microneedles, which significantly increased its permeation and retention in human skin. This method could be beneficial for treating inflammatory skin conditions.[4]
In summary, KPV offers multiple therapeutic benefits, particularly in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing in various inflammatory conditions. Its efficacy in targeted delivery systems and potential for transdermal application further enhance its clinical utility.


1. Orally Targeted Delivery of Tripeptide KPV via Hyaluronic Acid-Functionalized Nanoparticles Efficiently Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis. Xiao B, Xu Z, Viennois E, et al.

Molecular Therapy : The Journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy. 2017;25(7):1628-1640. doi:10.1016/j.ymthe.2016.11.020. Leading Journal

2. Melanocortin-Derived Tripeptide KPV Has Anti-Inflammatory Potential in Murine Models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Kannengiesser K, Maaser C, Heidemann J, et al. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. 2008;14(3):324-31. doi:10.1002/ibd.20334.
3. Mucoadhesive Hydrogel Capturing Tripeptide KPV: The Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial and Repairing Effect on Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis.

Shao W, Chen R, Lin G, et al. Biomaterials Science. 2021;10(1):227-242. doi:10.1039/d1bm01466h. Leading Journal

4. Transdermal Iontophoretic Delivery of Lysine-Proline-Valine (KPV) Peptide Across Microporated Human Skin. Pawar K, Kolli CS, Rangari VK, Babu RJ.

Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2017;106(7):1814-1820. doi:10.1016/j.xphs.2017.03.017.

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