PepT1-Mediated Tripeptide KPV Uptake Reduces Intestinal Inflammation

Plain-language summary

This foundational mechanistic study demonstrated that the tripeptide KPV is actively transported into intestinal epithelial and immune cells via the PepT1 transporter, where it inhibits NF-κB and MAP kinase inflammatory signaling pathways at nanomolar concentrations. Oral administration of KPV significantly reduced colitis severity in two established mouse models (DSS- and TNBS-induced), as confirmed by histological assessment and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. The authors concluded that KPV's PepT1-mediated cellular uptake makes it a strong candidate for further investigation as an inflammatory bowel disease therapeutic.