KPV Technical Overview
KPV is the smallest sequence fragment retained from the thirteen-residue alpha-MSH molecule, consisting of lysine, proline, and valine joined in that order. Because the tripeptide lacks the core His-Phe-Arg-Trp motif required for binding at known melanocortin receptors, it is studied as a structurally distinct entity rather than as a receptor agonist [3].
Its small size and net positive charge place it in a class of short cationic peptides that are readily soluble in aqueous buffer and straightforward to characterize by LC-MS. Laboratories use it as a reference tripeptide in transporter kinetics work and in cell-based signaling assays.
KPV is also indexed under the research designations alpha-MSH(11-13) and ACTH(11-13), which reflect its position within the parent sequence rather than a separate chemical identity.
Compound Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 67727-97-3 |
| PubChem CID | 125672 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 342.43 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic / Exact Mass | 342.2267 Da |
| Amino Acid Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val (one-letter: KPV) |
| Sequence Length | 3 residues |
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | (2S)-2-[[(2S)-1-[(2S)-2,6-diaminohexanoyl]pyrrolidine-2-carbonyl]amino]-3-methylbutanoic acid |
| InChIKey | YSPZCHGIWAQVKQ-AVGNSLFASA-N |
| ChEBI ID | CHEBI:160254 |
| Synonyms | alpha-MSH(11-13), ACTH(11-13), MSH(11-13), Lys-Pro-Val, L-Lysyl-L-prolyl-L-valine |
| Source | Synthetic (solid-phase peptide synthesis) |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC) |
| Appearance | Lyophilized white powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and aqueous buffer |
| Storage | -20°C, protect from light |
Storage and Handling
- Store the lyophilized compound at -20°C, sealed and protected from light.
- After reconstitution, store at 2°C to 8°C and use promptly; for longer intervals, aliquot and hold at -20°C to limit freeze-thaw cycles.
- Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation on the lyophilized cake.
- Maintain aseptic handling to preserve compound integrity.
Lyophilized Format
This compound ships in lyophilized (freeze-dried) form. Freeze-drying supports long-term storage stability and preserves compound integrity. No fillers are added.
Research Use Disclaimer
KPV is supplied for research use only. It is not a drug, food, cosmetic, or dietary supplement and has not been evaluated by the FDA. By purchasing, the buyer confirms the compound will be used solely for in vitro research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is KPV Peptide?
KPV is a synthetic tripeptide with the sequence Lys-Pro-Val, corresponding to residues 11 through 13 of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It is supplied as a research compound for in vitro laboratory work.
What Is the Molecular Weight of KPV?
KPV has a molecular weight of 342.43 g/mol and a monoisotopic mass of 342.2267 Da, with the molecular formula C₁₆H₃₀N₄O₄. Its CAS number is 67727-97-3 and its PubChem CID is 125672.
How Should KPV Be Stored?
KPV should be stored as a lyophilized powder at -20°C, sealed and protected from light. Once reconstituted, it is held at 2°C to 8°C for short intervals or aliquoted and frozen to limit freeze-thaw cycles.
How Is KPV Purity Verified?
KPV supplied by BioLongevity Labs is tested by high-performance liquid chromatography to a specification of ≥99% purity, with identity confirmed by mass spectrometry against the expected mass of 342.2267 Da.
What Research Areas Is KPV Studied In?
KPV is used in laboratory research on NF-κB signaling in cultured epithelial cell lines, on PepT1 di/tripeptide transporter uptake kinetics, and on melanocortin-receptor-independent peptide activity.
