Immune/Research Phase
KPV
Subcutaneous injection (weekly), Oral (daily - Rybelsus)
Overview
A C-terminal tripeptide fragment (Lys-Pro-Val) of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that retains potent anti-inflammatory activity without melanogenic effects. KPV inhibits NF-kB nuclear translocation and reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-6.
Mechanism of Action
It penetrates cell membranes and directly interacts with inflammatory signaling cascades, making it effective topically and orally for mucosal inflammation.
​Research Summary & Key Findings
Preclinical studies demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects in colitis models, reducing mucosal inflammation and promoting epithelial barrier repair. Oral KPV-loaded nanoparticles showed targeted anti-inflammatory activity in the colon (Dalmasso et al., PLoS One, 2008). Investigated for inflammatory bowel disease, atopic dermatitis, and wound healing. Preclinical stage with limited human clinical data.
Clinical Status
FDA APPROVED
KPV is in the research phase with limited clinical data in humans. Current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies.
Administration Routes
Subcutaneous injection (weekly)
Oral (daily - Rybelsus)
References
PRIMARY LITERATURE
PRIMARY LITERATUREPeer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
Administration Routes
METABOLIC
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)
METABOLIC
An investigational triple hormone receptor agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously. The glucagon receptor component adds…
METABOLIC
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)
A first-in-class dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist. Tirzepatide activates both incretin pathways…
METABOLIC
AOD-9604
A modified 16-amino acid fragment (amino acids 176-191) of the C-terminus of human growth hormone with an added tyrosine at the N-terminus. AOD-9604…
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.