BPC-157
15-amino acid peptide with cytoprotective and tissue healing properties, discovered from human gastric juice.
Overview
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound 157) is a pentadecapeptide — a fifteen amino acid long oligopeptide discovered during research on human gastric juice. It has demonstrated cytoprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects across a wide range of animal studies, and may accelerate tissue and organ healing. The "157" refers to the sequence position within the parent protein.
BPC-157 is considered a stable gastric pentadecapeptide because, unlike many peptides, it remains stable in human gastric juice at physiological conditions. This stability has made it a compelling candidate for oral as well as injectable research applications.
Mechanism of Action
BPC-157 operates through several synergistic mechanisms:
- VEGF Upregulation: Stimulates Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), enhancing angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) essential for wound healing and tissue regeneration.
- Membrane Stabilization: Stabilizes cell membranes and reduces oxidative stress damage.
- Cytokine Modulation: Downregulates pro-inflammatory mediators including TNF-alpha and IL-6.
- Fibroblast Stimulation: Promotes fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and vascularization at injury sites.
- NO Pathway Balance: Modulates nitric oxide signaling, balancing vasodilation and vascular tone.
- Growth Factor Interaction: Interacts with the growth hormone receptor signaling cascade, amplifying repair signals.
Benefits
BPC-157 has anti-ulcer effects against a range of insults including NSAIDs, stress, and cysteamine. It has shown remarkable efficacy in accelerating healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and corneal tissue in animal studies.
Research Fields
Possible Side Effects
Generally well-tolerated in animal research. No established human safety profile. Reported observations in animal models include nausea at high doses. Consult a medical professional before any human use.
Dosage & Protocol
Research dosages (animal models): 1–10 mcg/kg/day. Human equivalent doses are unstudied. Common research protocols: 250–500 mcg/day split into 1–2 doses via subcutaneous injection or oral capsule.