Abstract
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from a fragment of human gastric juice protein. It consists of 15 amino acids (GEPPPGKPADDAGLV) with a molecular weight of 1419 Da. The peptide demonstrates remarkable stability in gastric acid and resistance to proteases, enabling oral, topical, and parenteral administration in research settings.
Molecular Background
BPC-157 is a partial sequence of the larger gastric juice protein BPC. Key characteristics include:
- Lacks cysteine residues and disulfide bridges, conferring exceptional stability
- Survives over 24 hours in gastric juice at pH 2.0
- Resistant to trypsin, chymotrypsin, and pepsin digestion
- Amphipathic structure facilitates membrane interaction and cellular uptake
Research Applications
BPC-157 has been investigated in laboratory settings for:
- Gastrointestinal Studies: Mucosal protection and healing mechanisms
- Musculoskeletal Research: Tendon, ligament, and muscle repair models
- Vascular Studies: Angiogenesis and endothelial function
- Neuroprotection: Nerve regeneration and spinal cord research
Proposed Mechanisms
Research has focused on several signaling pathways:
- VEGFR2-Akt-eNOS Axis: Rapid phosphorylation leading to NO production
- FAK-Paxillin Pathway: Essential for cell migration processes
- Growth Hormone Receptor: Upregulation in tendon and muscle tissue
- Nitric Oxide System: Modulation of NO-mediated signaling
Preclinical Research Summary
Published preclinical studies have examined BPC-157 in various models:
- Gastrointestinal injury models (ethanol, NSAID-induced)
- Tendon and ligament transection models
- Muscle crush and regeneration studies
- Corneal healing research
- Periodontal and bone healing models
Technical Specifications
- Sequence: Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val
- Molecular Formula: C62H98N16O22
- Molecular Weight: 1419.53 g/mol
- Purity: ≥99% (HPLC verified)
- Storage: Store lyophilized at -20°C
Current Research Status
As of December 2025, BPC-157 remains primarily a preclinical research compound. The majority of published studies originate from a limited number of research groups. Independent replication and human clinical trials remain areas for future investigation.