KPV

Mechanism of Action

• Melanocortin Pathway Activation – KPV binds selectively to melanocortin receptors (particularly MC1R), triggering downstream anti-inflammatory cascades.

• NF-κB Inhibition – Suppresses activation of NF-κB, thereby downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.

• Antimicrobial Defense – Demonstrates direct antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal pathogens by disrupting cell wall integrity.

• Epithelial Repair – Promotes tissue healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration and fibroblast proliferation.

• Barrier Function Support – Improves epithelial tight junctions, particularly in gastrointestinal and skin tissues.

Research Applications

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Investigated for reducing intestinal inflammation and enhancing mucosal healing.

• Dermatology & Wound Healing: Studied in models of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and accelerated wound repair.

• Autoimmune Disorders: Potential modulator in diseases involving aberrant immune activation.

• Antimicrobial Research: Explored as a peptide-based antimicrobial alternative.

• Neuroinflammation: Preliminary studies suggest protective effects against CNS inflammation.

Safety & Tolerability

• Toxicity: Non-toxic in preclinical models, with favorable safety profile.

• Immune Tolerance: Lacks melanogenesis-inducing effects, making it safer than full α-MSH analogues.

• Adverse Effects: Minimal side effects reported in research settings; no significant systemic immunosuppression.

• Stability: Resistant to enzymatic degradation compared to larger peptides, increasing bioavailability.

Note: KPV is strictly intended for research purposes only. Not approved for human consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic use outside regulated studies.