Immune Peptides
KPV
Commonly used for
InflammationGut Health
What is it?
KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine) is a short anti-inflammatory tripeptide derived from the C-terminal fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that reduces inflammatory signaling, particularly through inhibition of the NF-κB pathway.
Mechanism of action: Inhibits NF-κB inflammatory signaling; Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production; May modulate intestinal and skin epithelial inflammation
What do people use it for?
Proposed indications: Gut inflammation (preclinical); Skin inflammation (preclinical); Inflammatory bowel disease (research)
How is it used? / Dosing
Commonly reported by peptide clinics†: 200-500 mcg/day, oral or subcutaneous
Peptide clinics report both oral and subcutaneous forms, commonly around 200-500 mcg/day, though this is less standardized across sources than for other research peptides. No human clinical trial data exists for KPV -- evidence is limited to in vitro and animal studies.
†Reported by peptide clinics and compounding pharmacies -- not derived from human clinical trials. Not an individualized recommendation. Actual use should be supervised by a qualified provider.
Typical clinical dosing schedule: No established clinical dosing. Human use has been limited to early-phase research.
Administration: Oral capsule, topical cream, or subcutaneous injection (research settings) — No established clinical dosing
How does it compare?
Compare with:
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
An "emerging / limited evidence" rating means rigorous research hasn't caught up yet -- not that this peptide doesn't work. Many peptides in this category are newer or simply understudied rather than proven ineffective.
Evidence rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ — Preclinical and early mechanistic studies support anti-inflammatory activity; robust human clinical trial data are lacking.
Safety & side effects
Common side effects: Human safety profile remains incompletely characterized.
Serious risks: Unknown long-term safety.
Legal & regulatory status
Legal status: Not FDA-approved for human use. This is a research compound, not a medication — any use should only occur under the direction of a licensed healthcare provider, and its legal availability varies and changes frequently. Verify current status independently before considering use.
Regulatory status: Research peptide • Not FDA approved
Who should avoid it?
Contraindications: Not established. Avoid in:; Pregnancy; Active malignancy; Uncontrolled illness outside research settings
Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid.
Research & references
Luger TA, Brzoska T. (2007). α-MSH related peptides: a new class of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating drugs. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 66(Suppl 3), iii52–iii55.