What Is BPC-157? A Research Guide for Laboratory Professionals
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is one of the most widely researched synthetic peptides in modern laboratory science. This guide covers everything researchers need to know — from molecular structure to published study data.
Molecular Profile
BPC-157 is a synthetic pentadecapeptide — a chain of 15 amino acids — derived from a protective protein naturally occurring in human gastric juice. Its full sequence is: Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Body Protection Compound-157 |
| CAS Number | 137525-51-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C₆₂H₉₈N₁₆O₂₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 1,419.5 g/mol |
| Amino Acid Length | 15 (pentadecapeptide) |
| Sequence | Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val |
| Storage | −20°C lyophilised, protected from light |
| Solubility | Water or acetic acid (0.1%) |
| Purity (Monumental Peptides) | ≥98% (HPLC verified) |
Background & Discovery
BPC-157 was first isolated and characterised by researchers at the University of Zagreb in the early 1990s. The compound is a partial sequence of body protection compound (BPC), a protein found in human gastric juice. Unlike the parent protein, BPC-157 is a stable, synthetic fragment that retains biological activity in aqueous environments — making it highly suitable for controlled laboratory research.
The "157" designation refers to the specific amino acid sequence position within the parent protein from which this fragment is derived.
Research Mechanisms Under Investigation
Published peer-reviewed research has explored several proposed mechanisms of action for BPC-157 at the cellular and molecular level:
Nitric Oxide (NO) Pathway Modulation
Several studies have examined BPC-157's interaction with the nitric oxide system. Research published in the Journal of Physiology suggested the compound may influence NO production, which plays a central role in vascular function and cellular signalling.
Growth Factor Interaction
Laboratory models have investigated whether BPC-157 interacts with growth factor receptors, including VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and EGF (epidermal growth factor) pathways. These are areas of active academic investigation.
Tendon and Connective Tissue Cell Studies
In-vitro studies using fibroblast cell cultures have examined BPC-157's effects on cell proliferation and migration. Researchers at Zagreb University published multiple papers examining this in the context of musculoskeletal tissue research.
Gastrointestinal Mucosal Research
Given its gastric origin, BPC-157 has been studied extensively in gastrointestinal research models, with publications exploring its interaction with gut epithelial cell lines and mucosal integrity markers.
Physical Characteristics
In its lyophilised (freeze-dried) form, BPC-157 appears as a white to off-white powder. It is highly stable in this state when stored correctly at −20°C and protected from moisture and UV light.
- Appearance: White to off-white lyophilised powder
- Stability: ≥24 months lyophilised at −20°C
- Reconstitution solvent: Bacteriostatic water or 0.1% acetic acid
- pH range: Stable between pH 4–8
- Hygroscopic: Yes — store sealed and desiccated
Availability & Purity Standards
Research-grade BPC-157 should meet a minimum purity threshold of ≥98% as verified by HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and mass spectrometry. Researchers should always request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from their supplier to verify purity and identity before use in any study.
At Monumental Peptides, our BPC-157 10mg vials are supplied lyophilised, HPLC-verified to ≥98% purity, with COA available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BPC-157 legal in the UK?
BPC-157 is not a controlled substance under UK law. It is legally available for purchase for research and laboratory purposes. It is not approved or licensed for human or veterinary therapeutic use in the UK or EU.
What is the difference between BPC-157 and TB-500?
BPC-157 is a 15-amino-acid synthetic peptide derived from gastric BPC protein. TB-500 is a synthetic fragment of Thymosin Beta-4, a different protein. Both are studied in laboratory research contexts but have distinct molecular structures, sequences, and proposed mechanisms. They are frequently researched independently in academic settings.
How should BPC-157 be stored in a laboratory setting?
Lyophilised BPC-157 should be stored at −20°C in a sealed, moisture-protected container away from UV light. Once reconstituted for in-vitro use, it should be stored at 4°C and used within 4–6 weeks. See our full Reconstitution & Storage Guide for detailed protocols.
Research-Grade BPC-157 — UK Stock
HPLC-verified ≥98% purity · Lyophilised 10mg vials · COA on request · Royal Mail tracked dispatch
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