Body Protection Compound-157 (BPC-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide — a 15-amino-acid sequence derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. Despite this origin, BPC-157 has demonstrated a broad range of tissue-protective and regenerative effects across multiple body systems in over two decades of research.
Mechanisms of Action
BPC-157 works through several overlapping mechanisms. It promotes angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels — essential for delivering oxygen to healing tissue. It activates growth hormone receptor signaling in tendon fibroblasts, accelerating collagen synthesis. It modulates nitric oxide production, improving local circulation. And it downregulates inflammatory cascades, particularly NF-κB, reducing chronic inflammation that impairs healing.
The Research Evidence
Research on BPC-157 spans tendon and ligament healing, muscle repair, bone healing, gut protection, and neurological protection. In animal models, BPC-157 consistently accelerates healing of Achilles tendon injuries, partial rotator cuff tears, and muscle injuries. Effect sizes are substantial — not marginal. The gastroprotective effects are perhaps the most extensively studied: BPC-157 protects against NSAID-induced gastric ulceration, promotes healing of existing ulcers, and reduces intestinal permeability.
Administration
BPC-157 is typically administered subcutaneously at 200–500 mcg per day. For localized injuries, injections near the injured site maximize local concentration. Systemic administration is effective for gut and generalized systemic effects.
Safety Profile
BPC-157 has a favorable safety profile in all published research. No significant toxicity has been observed at therapeutic doses. No carcinogenic potential has been identified. The peptide does not suppress endogenous production of any hormone.