For research use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. Not FDA-approved for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease.
Overview
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide consisting of 15 amino acids derived from a partial sequence of a protein identified in gastric juice. It carries the molecular formula C₆₂H₉₈N₁₆O₂₂ and a molecular weight of 1,419.55 g/mol, with the amino acid sequence: Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val.
As a lyophilized research peptide, BPC-157 is supplied as a white powder, soluble in bacteriostatic or sterile water, and is used exclusively in preclinical in vitro and in vivo experimental models. It is not approved by the FDA for any diagnostic, therapeutic, or preventative medical application.
Molecular Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val |
| Molecular Formula | C₆₂H₉₈N₁₆O₂₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 1,419.55 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 137525-51-0 |
| Amino Acid Count | 15 |
| Physical Form | Lyophilized white powder |
| Storage | −20°C, desiccated, protected from light |
| Solubility | Aqueous (bacteriostatic/sterile water) |
Preclinical Research Context
BPC-157 has been the subject of an extensive body of preclinical literature over three decades, primarily from research groups at the University of Zagreb and affiliated institutions. The compound has been investigated in rodent models across a range of experimental paradigms.
Gastrointestinal Tract Research Models
The earliest published investigations examined BPC-157 in gastric ulcer models in rats. Sikiric et al. (1993) documented dose-dependent effects on ulcer healing parameters in cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcer models, establishing the foundational preclinical literature for this compound. Subsequent studies examined the compound’s interactions with the NO-system and VEGFR2 signaling pathways in gastrointestinal tissue models.
Tendon and Connective Tissue Models
Chang et al. (2011) investigated BPC-157 in a rat Achilles tendon transection model, reporting observations related to tendon-to-bone healing parameters. The compound has been explored in several connective tissue model systems, with attention to collagen organization and fibroblast activity in culture conditions.
Neurological Research Models
Gwyer et al. (2019) reviewed preclinical investigations of BPC-157 in central nervous system models, documenting observations across dopamine system, serotonin system, and GABA-ergic pathway studies. The compound has been investigated in rodent models of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
Vascular Research Models
Multiple preclinical studies have examined BPC-157’s interaction with the nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway and angiogenic markers including VEGFR2. These investigations form part of the mechanistic literature exploring how BPC-157 may modulate vascular biology in experimental systems.
Regulatory Status (US)
BPC-157 is currently classified by the FDA as a Category 2 compound for compounding purposes, meaning it may not be used as an active ingredient in compounded drug preparations. It is not approved for any therapeutic indication. For research procurement, BPC-157 is available as a Research Use Only (RUO) compound — meaning it may be purchased and used solely for in vitro and in vivo experimental research by qualified researchers and laboratory professionals.
Analytical Verification Standards for Research Procurement
Purity: ≥99% by HPLC
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with reverse-phase C18 column methodology is the standard analytical technique for peptide purity determination. The resulting chromatogram should show a single dominant peak representing the target peptide, with all impurity peaks collectively accounting for ≤1% of integrated area.
Molecular Identity: LC-MS Confirmation
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) confirms the molecular weight of the compound matches the expected value for the declared amino acid sequence. For BPC-157, the expected [M+H]⁺ value should correspond to a molecular weight of 1,419.55 g/mol. LC-MS confirmation eliminates the risk of peptide sequence errors or truncation artifacts that HPLC purity data alone cannot detect.
Batch-Specific Certificate of Analysis
A batch-specific CoA — referenced to the exact lot number shipped — should be provided with every order. Generic CoAs listing only a “typical” result without lot attribution do not confirm the analytical status of the material received.
ISO/IEC 17025 Laboratory Accreditation
The third-party laboratory issuing the CoA should hold ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, the international competency standard for analytical testing and calibration laboratories. This accreditation requires demonstrable technical competence and management system compliance verified by an independent accreditation body.
Peptrio’s BPC-157 Verification Specifications
Peptrio’s BPC-157 (5mg, lyophilized) meets the following analytical criteria: Purity ≥99% by HPLC; Identity confirmed by LC-MS; CoA batch-specific, issued per lot; Testing laboratory ISO/IEC 17025 accredited, third-party; Format lyophilized white powder, 5mg per vial; Storage ships at ambient temperature, store at −20°C upon receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BPC-157?
BPC-157 is a synthetic pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from a partial sequence of a gastroprotective protein found in gastric juice. It carries the molecular formula C₆₂H₉₈N₁₆O₂₂ and is investigated exclusively in preclinical research models.
What does “lyophilized” mean for peptide stability?
Lyophilization (freeze-drying) removes water from the peptide under vacuum, producing a stable powder that resists degradation significantly longer than liquid formulations. Lyophilized peptides stored at −20°C in sealed, desiccated vials maintain stability for extended periods compared to aqueous solutions.
What is the difference between HPLC purity and LC-MS confirmation?
HPLC measures the percentage of the target compound relative to all detectable material in the sample — it quantifies purity. LC-MS confirms molecular identity by measuring the mass-to-charge ratio of the compound, verifying it is the correct molecule. Both are required for research-grade confirmation; HPLC alone is insufficient.
Is BPC-157 approved for human use?
No. BPC-157 is not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative application. It is sold by Peptrio strictly for in vitro and in vivo research use by qualified laboratory professionals.
Disclaimer: BPC-157 is available from Peptrio for research use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. Not FDA-approved for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease or condition.
Selected PubMed References:
Sikiric P, et al. Eur J Pharmacol. 1997;332(1):23-33. PMID: 9298925
Chang CH, et al. J Appl Physiol. 2011;110(3):774-80. PMID: 21148341
Gwyer D, et al. Inflammopharmacology. 2019;27(5):963-985. PMID: 31385012
Sikiric P, et al. Curr Pharm Des. 2011;17(16):1612-32. PMID: 21548867