BPC-157 stands for Body Protective Compound-157, a pentadecapeptide made up of 15 amino acids that was first isolated from human gastric juice. Research into this peptide began with studies by Sikirić and colleagues, who observed its protective effects in various animal models across different organ systems.
The proposed mechanisms of action involve several biological pathways. BPC-157 appears to interact with growth hormone receptors, modulate nitric oxide signaling, and upregulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which plays a key role in angiogenesis and tissue repair. These interactions have attracted attention in research settings focused on gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal healing, though most evidence comes from preclinical studies rather than human trials.