BPC‑157: The Healing Peptide

Overview:
BPC‑157 (Body Protection Compound‑157) is a synthetic peptide derived from a protective protein found in human gastric juice, composed of 15 amino acids. It is widely referred to as the “healing peptide” due to its regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-repairing properties observed in animal models. BPC‑157 promotes angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), supports fibroblast and tendon cell growth, accelerates muscle, ligament, nerve, and bone repair, and has shown potential in gastrointestinal healing, including protection against NSAID-induced gut injury. Despite its popularity in wellness and performance communities, it is not FDA-approved for human use, and evidence is mostly limited to preclinical and anecdotal sources. (en.wikipedia.org)

Mechanisms of Action:

  • Enhances vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activity → promotes blood vessel formation
  • Stimulates fibroblast migration and proliferation
  • Modulates nitric oxide pathways for inflammation resolution and vasodilation
  • Stabilizes the gut-brain axis, reduces oxidative stress, and protects neurons
  • Supports gastrointestinal mucosal repair and connective tissue healing

Potential Applications (Preclinical):

  • Muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries
  • Joint healing and arthritis support
  • Gastrointestinal ulcer and IBD management
  • Neurological and cardiovascular recovery

Dosing (Experimental/Community):
| Phase | Typical Dose | Frequency | Route |
| Loading | 250–500 mcg | 1–2× daily | Subcutaneous near injury
| Maintenance | 250–500 mcg | Every 1–2 days | Subcutaneous or oral (capsule form exists)

Safety & Regulation:

  • Not approved by FDA or EMA
  • No human clinical trials validating efficacy or safety
  • WADA lists BPC‑157 as prohibited in sport

References (APA):
Jóźwiak, M., et al. (2025). Multifunctionality and medical potential of BPC‑157: Review of literature and patents. Pharmaceuticals, 18(2), 185.
BPC‑157. (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BPC-157
USADA. (2024). BPC‑157 warning and status. https://www.usada.org/spirit-of-sport/bpc-157-peptide-prohibited