What is KPV?
KPV is the smallest known α-MSH-derived peptide that retains anti-inflammatory activity. The three-residue sequence (Lys-Pro-Val) corresponds to the C-terminus of α-MSH and engages melanocortin signaling along with MC1R-independent intracellular pathways. Its compact structure resists proteolytic degradation in the gut lumen — a property exploited in oral research formulations targeting intestinal inflammation.