BPC-157
Also known as: Body Protection Compound-157, PL 14736, Bepecin
At a Glance
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic 15-amino-acid peptide fragment derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. It has been studied extensively in animal models for potential wound healing, tissue repair, and cytoprotective effects.
⚠️ Research Status: BPC-157 has not been approved by the FDA or other regulatory bodies for human use. The majority of evidence comes from rodent studies. Human clinical trial data is extremely limited.
Mechanism of Action
The proposed mechanisms of BPC-157 are complex and not fully elucidated. Key pathways implicated in animal studies include:
- Nitric Oxide (NO) System: May modulate NO synthase activity, affecting blood vessel function and tissue repair.
- VEGF Pathway: Animal studies suggest upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), potentially promoting angiogenesis.
- Growth Factors: May interact with growth hormone and related signaling cascades.
- Dopaminergic System: Some rodent studies indicate effects on dopamine receptors and turnover.
Note: These mechanisms are primarily derived from in vitro and animal studies. Direct applicability to humans is not established.
Evidence Summary
Tissue Repair & Wound Healing
Low Confidence Animal StudyMultiple rodent studies have reported accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and skin wounds. Effects on collagen organization and blood vessel formation have been observed.
Limitations: No published RCTs in humans. Animal model doses and routes may not translate.
Gastrointestinal Protection
Low Confidence Animal StudyBPC-157 was originally isolated from gastric secretions. Rodent studies suggest protective effects against NSAID-induced gastric lesions and inflammatory bowel conditions.
Neurological Effects
Low Confidence Animal StudySome animal studies report effects on dopaminergic systems and potential neuroprotective properties. Evidence is preliminary.
Safety & Unknowns
Known Concerns
- No long-term human safety data: Absence of controlled trials means safety profile is unknown.
- Potential for contamination: Research-grade peptides lack pharmaceutical quality controls.
- Immunogenicity: Peptides can theoretically trigger immune responses; not well-characterized for BPC-157.
Regulatory Status
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| United States (FDA) | Not approved; not GRAS |
| European Union | Not approved |
| WADA | Prohibited in sport (S0 category) |
Key Studies
| Year | Type | Finding | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Animal | Accelerated Achilles tendon healing in rats | Small sample size |
| 2012 | Animal | Reduced gastric lesions from NSAIDs | Dose-response observed |
| 2018 | Review | Summary of 20+ animal studies | No human trials reviewed |
📚 See full literature list in the Literature section.
Related Compounds
- TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4): Another peptide studied for tissue repair
- GHK-Cu: Copper peptide with wound healing research
- Pentadecapeptide BPC (parent sequence)
Changelog
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| 2026-01-21 | Initial dossier created |