Immune modulation

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.

LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin, a 37-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide generated by cleavage of the precursor protein hCAP18. In research it plays a central role in innate immune defence and wound healing, yet acts in a context-dependent manner as both anti- and pro-inflammatory and has been linked to autoimmune processes. LL-37 is not an approved drug; the evidence base is predominantly basic and preclinical.

Synthetic heptapeptide derived from natural tuftsin. Approved as an anxiolytic (Selank) in Russia and some CIS states. Western phase-3 trials are absent; efficacy assessment relies on Russian research literature.

Complex of low-molecular polypeptides extracted from calf thymus. Approved in Russia since the 1970s as an immunomodulator. The exact composition is not standardised like a synthetic single peptide; Western controlled studies are largely absent.

Synthetic 28-amino-acid peptide identical to a naturally occurring thymus peptide. Approved as Zadaxin in more than 30 countries (not US/EU) for hepatitis B treatment and as an immunomodulator.