BPC-157

What Is BPC-157?

BPC-157 (Body Protective Compound-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from a cytoprotective protein isolated from human gastric juice. Its full sequence is Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val. First characterised by Professor Sikiric at the University of Zagreb, it has accumulated over 200 peer-reviewed preclinical publications spanning tendon, muscle, gut, bone, CNS, and vascular biology.

Key Mechanisms

• FAK-Paxillin pathway activation — drives fibroblast migration and proliferation at injury sites
• VEGF upregulation — stimulates angiogenesis to restore blood supply to damaged tissue
• NO-system modulation — maintains nitric oxide synthase balance, protecting vascular integrity
• EGR-1 transcription factor — upregulates collagen gene expression in fibroblasts
• NF-κB inhibition — reduces TNF-α, IL-6 and inflammatory cascade activation

Research Applications

• Tendon and ligament healing (Achilles, rotator cuff models)
• Muscle crush-injury recovery
• Gastrointestinal ulcer and colitis healing
• Bone fracture repair (via BMP-2, OPG upregulation)
• CNS neuroprotection and peripheral nerve regeneration
• Systemic organ protection (cardiac, liver, kidney)

Stacking

Commonly stacked with TB500 for synergistic multi-tissue repair (BPC-157 handles cellular signalling; TB500 drives angiogenesis and cell migration). Some researchers combine with GHK-Cu for ECM remodelling support.

Key References

1. Sikiric P et al. “Stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157.” Curr Pharm Des, 2018;24(18):1906–1922.
2. Chang CH et al. “BPC 157 on tendon healing.” J Appl Physiol, 2011;110(3):774–780.
3. Pevec D et al. “Impact of BPC 157 on muscle healing.” Med Sci Monit, 2010;16(3):BR81–88.