KPV vs LL-37
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- KPV is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory tripeptide derived from the C-terminal of alpha-MSH. It powerfully suppresses intestinal and systemic inflammation via melanocortin receptors, making it valuable for IBD, gut healing, and wound repair.
- LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. It kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses by disrupting their membranes, while simultaneously modulating immune responses. Used for antimicrobial protection, immune priming, and wound healing.
- Half-Life
- Short half-life (~15–30 minutes), but effects persist longer due to receptor-level anti-inflammatory cascades
- Very short (~1–2 hours) in plasma due to protease degradation; topical use bypasses systemic clearance
- Admin Route
- Oral, SubQ, Topical
- SubQ, Topical, Intranasal
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 500 mcg – 1 mg
- 100–300 mcg
- Frequency
- Once to twice daily
- 2–3x per week
- Key Benefits
- Reduces intestinal inflammation (IBD, Crohn's, colitis)
- Promotes gut mucosal healing and barrier integrity
- Accelerates wound healing topically
- Suppresses systemic inflammatory cytokines
- Antimicrobial properties against pathogens
- Reduces neuroinflammation when administered systemically
- May improve symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial (bacteria, fungi, viruses)
- Promotes wound healing and angiogenesis
- Immune system modulation — enhances innate immunity
- Reduces LPS-mediated endotoxemia
- Anti-biofilm activity against resistant organisms
- Promotes tissue regeneration and keratinocyte migration
- May protect against sepsis
- Side Effects
- Generally very well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions (SC)
- Rare: transient flushing
- Injection site redness and irritation
- Mild inflammatory response at injection site
- Potential pro-inflammatory at high doses
- Rare: fever or flu-like symptoms at initiation
- Stacks With
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