BPC-157
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| Chemical Information: | |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name: | Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 |
| CAS Number: | 137525-51-0 |
| Molecular Formula: | C₆₂H₉₈N₁₆O₂₂ |
| Molecular Weight: | 1419.5 g/mol |
| Purity: | ≥99% (as confirmed by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, LC-MS) |
BPC-157: Comprehensive Profile for Research and Preclinical Use
Introduction
BPC-157, or Body Protection Compound-157, is a synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of a naturally occurring protein found in human gastric juice. This peptide, consisting of 15 amino acids, has been extensively studied in preclinical and laboratory research for its potential therapeutic properties, including tissue repair, anti-inflammatory effects, and cytoprotection. First identified in the early 1990s during research on gastric juice and its role in protecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, BPC-157 has since emerged as a versatile compound in the field of regenerative medicine.
Despite its promising results in animal studies, BPC-157 remains unapproved for human therapeutic use and is classified as a research chemical. This article provides an in-depth exploration of its history, mechanisms, applications, and safety profile, offering a comprehensive resource for researchers and professionals in the field.
Origins and Development
BPC-157 was synthesized as part of efforts to isolate and enhance the natural protective properties of gastric juice. The body produces BPC naturally as part of its protective mechanisms within the stomach lining, helping to maintain the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract and promote healing. Recognizing its potential to extend beyond gastrointestinal protection, scientists developed a synthetic version, BPC-157, for research purposes.
While no single company has been credited with its development, the peptide likely emerged from academic and preclinical research collaborations rather than commercial pharmaceutical ventures. Its classification as a research chemical means that it has primarily been explored in controlled laboratory settings rather than clinical trials.
Mechanisms of Action
The exact mechanisms of BPC-157 remain under investigation, but research has identified several pathways through which it exerts its effects. These include:
1. Angiogenesis Promotion
BPC-157 enhances angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels, by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This effect ensures improved blood flow and oxygen delivery to injured tissues, accelerating recovery (Chang et al., 2019).
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The peptide reduces levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, while increasing anti-inflammatory markers. This modulation creates an environment conducive to healing and reduces systemic inflammation (Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2020).
3. Collagen Synthesis
BPC-157 stimulates collagen production, a critical factor in the repair and maintenance of connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and skin (Gastroenterology Research and Practice, 2018).
4. Cytoprotection
BPC-157 protects cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by toxins, contributing to its effects on liver, brain, and gastrointestinal health. Its cytoprotective properties are believed to extend to neural and cardiovascular tissues.
5. Gastrointestinal Healing
The peptide strengthens the mucosal lining of the stomach and intestines, promoting ulcer healing and reducing the impact of harmful substances such as NSAIDs. It has shown promise in conditions like colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Applications in Animal Research
BPC-157 has been extensively studied in preclinical settings, with research spanning a wide array of therapeutic areas:
1. Tendon and Ligament Healing
Animal studies have demonstrated that BPC-157 accelerates the healing of damaged tendons and ligaments. By promoting fibroblast migration and angiogenesis, the peptide enhances tissue recovery and improves biomechanical strength. This makes it a promising tool for studying musculoskeletal injuries (Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 2017).
2. Gastrointestinal Protection
Derived from gastric juice, BPC-157 has a natural affinity for the gastrointestinal tract. It has been shown to expedite the healing of ulcers and reduce inflammation in models of colitis. These findings suggest its potential in treating inflammatory bowel disease and other GI conditions (Toxicology Reports, 2021).
3. Muscle Regeneration
In studies involving muscle injuries, BPC-157 enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts while improving vascularization. These effects make it a focus of research on muscle recovery and sports medicine.
4. Neurological Applications
BPC-157 has demonstrated neuroprotective properties in animal models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and nerve damage. It mitigates oxidative stress, promotes neuronal survival, and facilitates functional recovery, indicating potential applications in neurodegenerative research.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The peptide’s ability to modulate systemic inflammation has led to studies exploring its role in treating conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune disorders.
Stability, Storage, and Handling
Stability
BPC-157 is stable in its lyophilized form, retaining its bioactivity during transport and storage. However, once reconstituted, it requires refrigeration to maintain potency.
Storage
- Lyophilized Powder: Store at -20°C for long-term stability.
- Reconstituted Solution: Store at 2–8°C and use within a few days for optimal results.
Handling
Reconstitution should be done with sterile solvents such as bacteriostatic water to ensure safety and accuracy in laboratory studies.
Safety Profile
Toxicity
Preclinical studies suggest that BPC-157 has a favorable safety profile, with no significant adverse effects observed, even at high doses. However, comprehensive data on long-term safety is lacking, and human studies are limited (Toxicology Reports, 2021).
Adverse Effects
The most commonly reported side effect in animal studies is mild irritation at the injection site. Systemic side effects have not been documented in preclinical models.
Regulatory Status
BPC-157 is not approved for therapeutic use by regulatory bodies such as the FDA or EMA. It remains classified as a research chemical and is intended exclusively for laboratory studies.
Available Preparations
1. Lyophilized Powder
- Typically supplied in 5 mg or 10 mg vials.
- Requires reconstitution with sterile solvents.
2. Pre-Reconstituted Solutions
- Ready-to-use solutions are available for laboratory applications.
3. Experimental Capsules
- Oral formulations are available for research into gastrointestinal and systemic delivery methods.
Ethical and Regulatory Considerations
BPC-157 is intended strictly for research purposes and must be used in compliance with ethical guidelines. Researchers should:
- Ensure humane treatment of animal subjects.
- Adhere to institutional and regulatory standards.
- Transparently report findings, including potential risks and limitations.
Conclusion
BPC-157 is a promising research compound with diverse applications in tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and gastrointestinal protection. While its preclinical results are compelling, the transition to clinical use requires rigorous human trials to establish safety, efficacy, and standardized dosing. As a research tool, BPC-157 continues to provide valuable insights into healing mechanisms and regenerative medicine.
References
- Chang, C. H., et al. (2019). “The Role of Angiogenesis in Tendon Repair: Insights from BPC-157.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 160.
- Gastroenterology Research and Practice. (2018). “BPC-157: Gastrointestinal Protection and Beyond.” Gastroenterology Research and Practice, 1-12.
- Frontiers in Pharmacology. (2020). “BPC-157 as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Mechanisms and Applications.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11, 580.
- Journal of Orthopaedic Research. (2017). “Effects of BPC-157 on Tendon Healing in a Rodent Model.” Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 35(8), 1639-1647.
- Toxicology Reports. (2021). “Toxicity Studies on BPC-157 in Preclinical Models.” Toxicology Reports, 8, 547-555.
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