From the Research
Definition and Composition of BPC 157
- BPC 157 is a pentadecapeptide, composed of 15 amino acids, and is a partial sequence of the body protection compound (BPC) that is discovered in and isolated from human gastric juice 1.
- It is a stable gastric pentadecapeptide with anti-ulcer peptidergic properties, proven to be safe in clinical trials for inflammatory bowel disease and wound healing, with no reported toxicity 2.
Therapeutic Effects of BPC 157
- BPC 157 has been shown to accelerate the healing of various wounds, including musculoskeletal soft tissue injuries, tendon, ligament, and skeletal muscle injuries 3, 1.
- It has been demonstrated to have a beneficial effect on the healing of tissues, including tendon outgrowth, cell survival, and cell migration, likely mediated by the activation of the FAK-paxillin pathway 1.
- BPC 157 has also been shown to have neuroprotective effects, protecting somatosensory neurons, and promoting peripheral nerve regeneration 4.
Potential Applications of BPC 157
- BPC 157 may serve as a novel mediator of Robert's cytoprotection, involved in maintaining GI mucosa integrity, with potential applications in the treatment of GI tract lesions, periodontitis, liver, and pancreas lesions 4.
- It may also have potential as a therapy for CNS-disorders, modulating serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, and beneficially affecting various behavioral disturbances 4.
- BPC 157 has been proposed as a potential antidote against NSAIDs, counteracting their adverse effects on the stomach, duodenum, intestine, liver, and brain 2.
Current Research and Availability
- Despite its potential therapeutic effects, most studies on BPC 157 have been performed on small rodent models, and its efficacy in humans is yet to be confirmed 3.
- BPC 157 is currently available for purchase over the internet, but its use is unregulated, and there is scarce orthopaedic literature investigating its clinical use and outcomes in tendon, muscle, and cartilage injury 5.