Comparison
KPV vs. Thymosin Beta-4
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Healing
Healing
CAS no.
67727-97-3
77591-33-4
Molecular weight
342.4 g/mol
4921 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
KPVAc-SDKPDMAEIEKFDKSKLKKTETQEKNPLPSKETIEQEKQAGESMechanism of action
KPV
KPV is the C-terminal fragment of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). In preclinical models the inflammation-modulating activity is attributed predominantly to inhibition of the NF-κB and MAP-kinase signalling pathways, accompanied by reduced release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Cellular uptake via the peptide transporter PepT1 has also been described. The precise molecular mechanisms are not conclusively understood and not confirmed in humans.
Thymosin Beta-4
Thymosin Beta-4 forms a 1:1 complex with monomeric (G-)actin and is regarded as the principal actin-sequestering factor in many cell types, thereby influencing cytoskeletal dynamics and directional cell migration. Preclinical models additionally describe effects on endothelial cell migration and neovascularisation, as well as activation of survival signalling pathways (including ILK/Akt). The mechanistic evidence derives predominantly from cell-culture and animal models.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Animal model
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
0
1
Effects recorded
5
4
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
0
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between KPV and Thymosin Beta-4?
- KPV is classified as "Healing", while Thymosin Beta-4 is classified as "Healing". KPV: KPV is the C-terminal tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) of the hormone α-MSH, corresponding to its positions 11–13. In cell and rodent models an inflammation-modulating activity has been described, primarily via inhibition of the NF-κB signalling pathway. The evidence is drawn almost exclusively from preclinical work (cell culture and mouse); controlled human studies are essentially absent. KPV is not an approved medicinal product. Thymosin Beta-4: Thymosin Beta-4 (Tβ4) is an endogenous 43-amino-acid peptide regarded as the principal intracellular actin-sequestering factor, involved in cell migration, neovascularisation and tissue regeneration. It has been studied in dry eye, corneal and wound healing, and cardiac repair (RegeneRx programmes, RGN-259). Thymosin Beta-4 is NOT an approved drug; robust human efficacy data are limited. The grey-market TB-500 is a synthetic fragment/analogue and is distinct from it. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, KPV or Thymosin Beta-4?
- The highest available evidence level is "Animal model" for KPV and "Human trial" for Thymosin Beta-4. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of KPV and Thymosin Beta-4 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: KPV — Unapproved, Thymosin Beta-4 — Unapproved. United States: KPV — Research only, Thymosin Beta-4 — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.