BPC-157 and Cellular Protection
BPC-157 helps to regenerate damaged tissue by causing fibroblast cells to multiply and migrate more easily and improving the synthesis of proteins such as collagen, fibrin, and elastin. Similar effects of BPC-157 peptide may be seen on endothelial cells, which are responsible for lining blood vessels.
Studies conducted on rats and chicken embryos found that BPC-157 significantly boosts the production of new blood vessels and the growth of collateral blood vessels, suggesting that BPC-157 could one day be used for stroke and heart attack subjects. Further investigation is needed on the cytoprotective effects of BPC-157.
BPC-157 and Peripheral Tissue Healing
BPC-157 studies have shown positive findings in animal studies on tendon, ligament, bone, and skin burns. With connective tissue injuries, limited blood flow can hinder the delivery of fibroblasts and other wound-repairing cells to the injury site, limiting tendon healing.
According to research done on rats, BPC-157 has been shown to improve the growth factor in collateralization and density of fibroblasts around tendons, ligaments, muscle tissue, and bones after injuries take place, and promote vascular growth. Collateral blood vessel growth is also an area of keen interest concerning research on BPC-157 since vascular growth may significantly augment the wound healing process in tissues that are otherwise limited by poor blood supply, like ligament injuries.
BPC-157 has also shown effectiveness in counteracting corticosteroid-impaired muscle healing.
BPC-157 peptide and Antioxidant function
Animal studies have shown that BPC-157 functions as an antioxidant and can protect against oxidative stress. In a research study, when BPC-157 peptides were used on rats, they had lower levels of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde, two indicators of tissue damage due to free radicals. BPC-157 may have similar effects within mammal gastric juices, but clinical trials are needed.
This is further supported by additional research, which has shown that BPC-157 can decrease the production of reactive oxygen species in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that a modified form of Lactococcus lactis bacteria increased levels of BPC-157 in cell culture, indicating that BPC-157 may play a role in probiotic modulation of gastrointestinal wound healing.
BPC–157 and Gastrointestinal Health
Since BPC-157 is a derivative of a natural compound in human gastric juices, it is of particular interest in clinical research on gut health and for treating inflammatory bowel disease, leaky gut, and stomach ulcers. BPC-157 peptide plays a role in the brain-gut axis and naturally strengthens and protects the mucosal barrier of the digestive tract. This form of tissue repair is what it is currently best known for. In a rat model of esophagitis, untreated for 12-20 months, when given directly into the stomach, BPC-157 peptide therapy instantaneously recovered disturbed lower esophageal and pyloric sphincter pressure, suggesting an accelerated healing process resulting from BPC-157.
It also antagonized other alcohol effects, including acute and chronic intoxication. In another study conducted on rats with short-bowel syndrome over 4 weeks, BPC-157 therapy yielded a significant increase in weight beyond preoperative values when administered orally or parentally.
Furthermore, villus height, crypt depth, and muscle thickness increased significantly with this in rats treated with BPC-157. Rats with ischemia and colitis in another study experienced significant improvements in blood flow and local nitric oxide utilization after administration of BPC-157, with virtually no remaining lesions and only minimal adhesions after only 10 days of treatment. More research is needed on the effects of BPC-157 on Crohn’s disease, gastric ulcers, and other gastrointestinal pathologies.
BPC–157 and the Central Nervous System
Beyond musculoskeletal and gut healing, BPC-157 has shown neuroprotective effects in preclinical studies. Animal studies suggest that BPC-157 may counteract damage from neurotoxins, support recovery from traumatic brain injuries, and even protect against amphetamine-induced behavioral disturbances. (Source).
These effects are thought to occur through modulation of neurotransmitter systems such as dopamine and serotonin, as well as upregulation of growth factors involved in neural regeneration. (Source)
1. Which brand of BPC-157 is best?
Several companies advertise BPC-157, but the safest and most popular formulation is from Sports Technology Labs. Their peptides are third-party tested for guaranteed purity.
2. Does BPC-157 promote muscle growth?
BPC-157 stimulates the growth and healing of skeletal and smooth muscles.
3. Does BPC-157 suppress testosterone?
In some studies, BPC-157 caused modest increases in testosterone; however, this effect is not generally expected.
4. What is the difference between TB-500 and BPC-157?
BPC-157 is a modified portion of Body Protection Compound, a healing protein secreted by the stomach. TB-500 peptide is a synthetic analogue of Thymosin Beta Four, a healing peptide that is naturally produced by the thymus gland.
5. What is BPC-157 suitable for?
BPC-157 is being researched for effects on soft tissue healing and restoration, primarily in the gastrointestinal tract and muscles.
6. Does BPC-157 improve wound and tendon healing?
Yes, preclinical studies have shown that BPC-157 can significantly accelerate wound healing and tendon repair by promoting angiogenesis and collagen production. It supports tendon-to-bone healing and the regeneration of damaged ligaments and muscles. (Sources, Source 2)
7. Is BPC-157 effective for gut health?
Yes, BPC-157 has been studied for its effects on conditions like IBS, leaky gut, and Crohn’s disease. It promotes epithelial repair and protects the gut lining from damage caused by inflammatory and oxidative stress. (Source)
8. Does BPC-157 have any neurological benefits?
In animal models, BPC-157 shows promise as a neuroprotective agent. It may help mitigate symptoms from traumatic brain injury, serotonin toxicity, and amphetamine-induced hypersensitivity. (Source)
9. How does BPC-157 compare to TB-500 in terms of healing?
Both peptides are studied for healing, but BPC-157 is particularly noted for gastrointestinal and vascular healing, while TB-500 is more associated with muscle regeneration and mobility enhancement.
Scientific References:
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2. Huang T, Zhang K, Sun L, Xue X, Zhang C, Shu Z, Mu N, Gu J, Zhang W, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Zhang W. Body protective compound-157 enhances alkali-burn wound healing in vivo and promotes proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vitro. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2015 Apr 30;9:2485-99. doi: 10.2147/DDDT.S82030. PMID: 25995620; PMCID: PMC4425239.
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8. Grabarevic Z, Tisljar M, Artukovic B, Bratulic M, Dzaja P, Seiwerth S, Sikiric P, Peric J, Geres D, Kos J. The influence of BPC-157 on nitric oxide agonist and antagonist-induced lesions in broiler chicks. J Physiol Paris. 1997 May-Oct;91(3-5):139-49. doi: 10.1016/s0928-4257(97)89478-8. PMID: 9403788.
9. Škrlec K, Ručman R, Jarc E, Sikirić P, Švajger U, Petan T, Perišić Nanut M, Štrukelj B, Berlec A. Engineering recombinant Lactococcus lactis as a delivery vehicle for BPC-157 peptide with antioxidant activities. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2018 Dec;102(23):10103-10117. doi: 10.1007/s00253-018-9333-6. Epub 2018 Sep 6. PMID: 30191288.
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13. Unveiling the Wolverine Peptide: Exploring Its Potential for Healing and Regeneration. Peptide Information (2023)