This profile is a documentation-focused reference for KPV as a research material. It sets out the molecule's identity, how each lot is characterized analytically, the documentation supplied, and the storage and handling considerations a laboratory typically records. It is written for evaluating a material on paper — not as a description of any use, effect, or application, and it makes no such claims.
For current presentations and lot-specific values, see the KPV product page. This article provides the analytical and documentation context behind those figures.
Molecular Identity and Structure
KPV is a tripeptide consisting of the residues lysine-proline-valine, corresponding to the C-terminal fragment of the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) sequence. As one of the smallest peptides in the catalog, it is a fully defined synthetic sequence that is reproducible from lot to lot.
It is catalogued under CAS registry number 131180-41-1, with the molecular formula C16H29N5O5 and a reported mass of approximately 371.4 Da.
Specifications at a Glance
The following reference values describe the material as characterized. Lot-specific figures are always those printed on the accompanying Certificate of Analysis, which takes precedence over any general reference.
| Attribute | Reference value |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 131180-41-1 |
| Molecular formula | C16H29N5O5 |
| Reported mass | ~371.4 Da |
| Sequence | Lys-Pro-Val (C-terminal of α-MSH) |
| Physical form | White lyophilized powder |
| Identity method | LC-MS |
| Purity method | RP-HPLC (area %) |
| Storage | -20 °C, protected from light |
| Classification | Research use only |
Analytical Characterization
Two complementary, orthogonal methods characterize each lot.
Purity — reverse-phase HPLC
Reverse-phase HPLC resolves the tripeptide from synthesis-related impurities and reports purity as an area-percent value for the tested sample under the stated method.
Identity — LC-MS
LC-MS confirms the material by measuring its molecular mass and comparing it to the theoretical value for the three-residue sequence. The distinction between purity and identity is explained in how identity and purity are verified.
Documentation and Lot Traceability
Each lot is supplied with a Certificate of Analysis recording purity, mass confirmation, and release date (see the guide to Certificates of Analysis), the supporting RP-HPLC purity report, and an independent third-party analytical report. A unique lot identifier ties these records to the physical material; the research documentation review checklist outlines what to confirm on receipt.
Storage and Handling Considerations
KPV is stored as a lyophilized powder at -20 °C, protected from light. As a three-residue peptide of low molecular weight, it reconstitutes quickly and completely in a neutral aqueous solvent with only gentle mixing. Because a low-mass peptide corresponds to a relatively large molar amount per milligram, working concentrations are typically calculated with care; recording the reconstitution date alongside the lot identifier provides a clear reference for the age of any prepared solution. General practice is covered in laboratory handling protocols.
Research Context
KPV appears in the laboratory research literature as a synthetic tripeptide of interest. This profile intentionally does not describe, summarize, or imply any biological activity, effect, outcome, or application. Any research use is defined and bounded by the investigating laboratory's protocols, institutional SOPs, and applicable safety and regulatory requirements.
What This Profile Does and Does Not Establish
This is a documentation reference. It does not, on its own, establish any of the following:
- That the material is appropriate for a specific research workflow — suitability is a laboratory determination made against institutional SOPs.
- That every unit in a shipment is identical to a tested sample; analysis is performed on a sample, not on each container.
- Any biological effect, activity, or outcome — none is claimed or implied.
- Fitness for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption. KPV is supplied for laboratory research use only.
Key Takeaways
- KPV is a synthetic tripeptide, Lys-Pro-Val (CAS 131180-41-1; ~371.4 Da), supplied as a lyophilized powder for research use only.
- Identity is confirmed by LC-MS; purity is reported by RP-HPLC — two distinct, complementary methods.
- Its low molecular weight means working concentrations are calculated with particular care.
- Each lot carries a COA, an RP-HPLC purity report, and an independent third-party report tied by a lot identifier.
