In short
A 3-amino-acid fragment of alpha-MSH studied for gut inflammation in cells and mice. We found no human trials. Health Canada lists KPV among seized unauthorized peptides.
Also known asLys-Pro-Val; alpha-MSH fragment
CategoryImmune
Canada statusNot authorized in Canada
Human evidence Very limited: almost all animal or cell studies
Last reviewedNovember 10, 2026
How strong is the human evidence?
- Cell & animal
- Small human studies
- Some randomized trials
- Large randomized trials
What is KPV?
KPV is the tripeptide lysine-proline-valine from the end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone.
Is KPV legal in Canada?
Not authorized. Named in Health Canada's lists of unauthorized and seized peptides.
What the research shows
- Dalmasso et al. (Gastroenterology 2008): KPV reduced inflammatory signalling in human cell lines and reduced colitis in mice when given in drinking water.
What it doesn't show
- We found no published human clinical trials of KPV (PubMed search, Nov 2026).
Common questions
Is KPV legal in Canada?
No. Health Canada lists KPV among unauthorized peptides.
Does KPV help gut inflammation?
So far that has only been shown in cells and mice.
Sources
- Health Canada — Peptides: Overview
- Health Canada advisory RA-81874 (Apr 9, 2026): Think twice before injecting peptides bought online
- Dalmasso G et al. PepT1-mediated tripeptide KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology 2008
