BPC-157 Overview:
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Introduction:
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BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic peptide derived from a partial sequence of the human gastric juice protein BPC (Body Protection Compound). It has gained significant attention in the research community due to its potential regenerative and protective effects on various tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, the gastrointestinal tract, and the nervous system. BPC-157 is composed of 15 amino acids and exhibits potent cytoprotective, angiogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties in various animal models.
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Molecular Structure and Sequence
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Molecular Formula: C62H98N16O22
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Molecular Weight: Approximately 1419.53552 g/mol
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Amino Acid Sequence: Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val
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Mechanism of Action:
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BPC-157’s exact mechanism of action is still under investigation, but research suggests that it works through several key biological pathways:
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1. Angiogenesis (Blood Vessel Formation):
BPC-157 has been shown to promote angiogenesis by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other pro-angiogenic factors.
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It enhances the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, thereby accelerating wound healing and tissue repair.
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2. Nitric Oxide (NO) Pathway Modulation:
BPC-157 stimulates the production of nitric oxide (NO), which improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and promotes vasodilation.
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It also interacts with endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which contributes to its cytoprotective and regenerative properties.
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3. Anti-Inflammatory and Cytoprotective Effects:
BPC-157 reduces inflammation by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6).
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It protects tissues from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
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4. Tendon, Ligament, and Muscle Repair:
BPC-157 has been shown to accelerate the healing of damaged tendons, ligaments, and muscles by increasing collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation.
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It enhances the expression of genes involved in the extracellular matrix remodeling process.
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5. Gastrointestinal Tract Protection:
BPC-157 has demonstrated protective effects against gastric ulcers and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in animal models.
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It improves intestinal motility and protects the gastric mucosa from damage caused by NSAIDs, alcohol, and other toxins.
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6. Neurological Protection and Regeneration:
BPC-157 promotes the repair of injured nerve cells and supports synaptic plasticity.
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It has been shown to protect against damage caused by neurotoxins and ischemia in animal studies.
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Pharmacokinetics:
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Absorption: BPC-157 is highly stable in gastric juice and has good bioavailability when administered orally or via injection.
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Distribution: It rapidly distributes to injured tissues, where it exerts its reparative and protective effects.
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Metabolism and Elimination: BPC-157 is broken down into smaller peptide fragments and amino acids, which are eventually excreted through renal and hepatic pathways.
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Potential Research Applications:
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1. Musculoskeletal Injuries:
Accelerated recovery from tendon, ligament, and muscle injuries.
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2. Gastrointestinal Health:
Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and peptic ulcers.
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3. Neurological Conditions:
Recovery from traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage.
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4. Cardiovascular Protection:
Promotes endothelial repair and reduces ischemic damage.
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5. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Modulation:
Reduction of systemic inflammation and chronic pain.
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Safety and Toxicology:
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In animal studies, BPC-157 has demonstrated a high safety profile with no significant adverse effects at research dosages.
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No cytotoxicity or genotoxicity has been reported in preclinical studies.
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Long-term safety and efficacy in humans have not been established.
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Legal and Regulatory Status:
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BPC-157 is not approved by the FDA or other regulatory agencies for human use.
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It is classified as a research chemical and is intended for research purposes only.
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BPC-157 is sold strictly for laboratory research purposes only. It is not approved for human consumption, medical use, or veterinary use. Any use outside of a research setting is prohibited. The information provided herein is for educational and research purposes only.