KPV is a tripeptide (i.e. 3 amino acids long) that makes up the C-terminal end of a larger naturally occurring melanocortin peptide hormone in your body known as alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Human body consists of various endogenous peptide hormones that are vital for the key body functions and overall development and wellbeing. One such group of hormones is called melanocyte stimulating hormones or melanotropins. These hormones are primarily responsible for hair and skin pigmentation, maintain optimal energy levels in the body, play key role in sexual activity and help protect against inflammation.Out of this class of melanotropin hormones, the most important hormones are alpha melanocyte stimulating hormones (a-MSH). a-MSH is an endogenous peptide hormone, composed of 13 amino acids, and is responsible for metabolic activities, sexual behavior and skin pigmentation.Over time, with the help of continuous research on a-MSH hormones, scientists were able to isolate a fragment of this protein hormone and identify its biological effects, especially its anti-inflammatory properties. This fragment is known as KPV peptide.