Research Compound BPC-157

Research Compound BPC-157 is a laboratory material for analytical and in vitro work, available as a lyophilised vial or a research dispenser.

What is BPC-157?

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide of 15 amino acids with the sequence Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val and a molecular weight of approximately 1419 Da. It is derived from a partial sequence of a protein isolated from human gastric juice. Unlike most peptides, it is described in the literature as relatively stable in acidic media, one reason it is frequently studied in gastrointestinal models.

Research background

Most published work on BPC-157 comes from the research group of Prof. Predrag Sikirić at the University of Zagreb School of Medicine, which has studied it since the early 1990s. The literature is therefore extensive in number of papers, but relatively few independent replications come from other laboratories — an important consideration when interpreting it.

Mechanism and scientific context

The precise mechanism has not been established. Cellular and animal models suggest interactions with the nitric oxide (NO) system, VEGFR2 signalling and angiogenesis, and the FAK–paxillin pathway involved in fibroblast migration. Work on tendon fibroblasts also describes changes in growth hormone receptor expression. These findings describe research hypotheses, not confirmed effects in humans.

Main research areas

• tendon, ligament and skeletal muscle models
• angiogenesis and microcirculation
• gastrointestinal mucosal integrity
• fibroblast migration and adhesion
• inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress

Level of evidence

Predominantly preclinical. A 2025 systematic review found almost exclusively cellular and animal studies. Human data are limited to a small number of small pilot studies, and quality clinical safety data do not exist.

Related research materials

BPC-157 is frequently discussed alongside thymosin beta-4 (TB-500). It is also available as the ready-made combination BPC-157 / TB-500 Mix and as a component of GLOW and KLOW. Evidence for the single molecule does not confirm the properties of combinations.

Research use only: for laboratory, analytical and in vitro research only; not for use in humans or animals. Guidance on batch documentation is available in our COA guide.