pentadecapeptide raises a handful of sensible questions. This page answers them in order, starting with the fundamentals and moving to applications.
This page was last updated on 2026-07-29 and is reviewed periodically as new material appears.
BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide composed of fifteen amino acid residues, with the sequence Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val. Its name derives from body protection compound, a term used for a protein fraction identified in human gastric juice. Researchers in Zagreb first reported the pentadecapeptide in the early 1990s and described it as a stable fragment of that larger protein. The compound is also catalogued as PL 14736 and, in some commercial contexts, as bepecin. Its molecular formula is C62H98N16O22 and its monoisotopic mass is approximately 1419 daltons.
Most published work on BPC-157 consists of preclinical studies, including rodent models of tissue injury, gastrointestinal lesions, and vascular or tendon damage, together with in vitro cell assays. Reviews frequently note that the mechanisms proposed in these papers remain incompletely characterised and that findings have not been confirmed in large randomised human trials. The compound is widely sold as a research chemical rather than a licensed medicine, and labels commonly carry a statement that it is not for human use. Whether any of the reported animal effects translate to humans is an open question rather than an established result.
Most published studies examine BPC-157 in animal models rather than in humans. Common subjects include rats and mice, and researchers often use models of tissue injury, surgery, or induced inflammation. Reported endpoints include healing rates, blood vessel formation, and markers of tissue repair. These designs provide controlled comparisons, but findings in animals do not automatically transfer to people. Human clinical data remain limited and are frequently described as preliminary.
Doses in the literature are usually expressed in micrograms or nanograms per kilogram of body weight. Investigators have administered the peptide by several routes, including injection and oral delivery, depending on the question asked. Route and dose vary widely across studies, which complicates direct comparison of results. Many papers report effects at low doses, but the absence of a standardized protocol limits generalization. Reporting practice differs between research groups.
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular formula | C62H98N16O22 | Computed for the free peptide |
| Monoisotopic mass | Approximately 1419 Da | Reported values shift with counterion and hydration |
| Residue count | 15 amino acids | Sequence Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val |
| Origin | Fragment of human gastric juice protein | First described in early 1990s research reports |
| Common synonyms | BPC 157; PL 14736; bepecin | Naming varies across papers and catalogues |
BPC-157 is a synthetic pentadecapeptide with the sequence GEPPPGKPADDAGLV, corresponding to a partial fragment of a larger protein detected in human gastric juice. The name derives from the parent protein designation BPC, an abbreviation of body protection compound, with 157 acting as a fraction or batch identifier used by the original investigators. Its molecular weight is approximately 1419 daltons, and the chain contains no unusual residues or disulfide bridges. In the literature it is described as a short, water-soluble fragment rather than a complete natural protein.
Most early work on this peptide originated in the 1990s from a research group in Zagreb, Croatia, relying on animal models and cell cultures. Reported observations included effects on gastrointestinal lesion healing, tendon fibroblast migration, and blood vessel formation under controlled laboratory conditions. These findings come predominantly from rodent studies and in vitro assays rather than from human trials. Controlled human data remain limited, and the degree to which animal results translate to human physiology is an open question rather than a settled fact.
BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide built from fifteen amino acids, referred to in the literature as a pentadecapeptide. Its sequence was derived from a larger protein found in human gastric juice, commonly called body protection compound. Researchers first described the fragment in the early 1990s and named it after the parent protein plus a numeric identifier. The peptide does not correspond to a single marketed medicine; it is primarily a laboratory research material. Suppliers distribute it as a lyophilized powder intended for experimental use.
Published work on BPC-157 spans several decades and covers a wide range of experimental models. Much of the early literature reports outcomes in animal studies involving induced injury to the gastrointestinal tract, tendons, and other tissues. The volume of preclinical reports is large, while controlled human trials remain scarce. This imbalance is a recurring point of discussion, because animal findings do not automatically translate into human effects. Reviews often note that study designs differ substantially across laboratories.
TMEM261 shows ubiquitous expression in humans and is detected in almost all tissue types. It shows tissue-enriched gene (TEG) expression when compared to housekeeping gene (HKG) expression. Its highest expression is seen in the heart (overall relative expression 94%) particularly in heart fibroblast cells, thymus (overall relative expression 90%), and thyroid (overall relative expression 93%) particularly in thyroid glandular cells. Staining intensity of cancer cells showed intermediate to high expression in breast, colorectal, ovarian, skin, urothelial, head and neck cells. Currently the function for TMEM261 is unknown. However, gene amplification and rearrangements of its locus have been associated with various cancers including colorectal cancer, breast cancer and lymphomas.
Genes for one or multiple cargo proteins with specific targeting peptides. Regulatory or accessory genes that enhance functionality or interaction with other pathways. Genes encoding the encapsulin shell protein. Encapsulins can be classified into four different families based on their cargo type and operon structure. These encapsulins likely evolved in response to the need for intracellular iron homeostasis. This family of encapsulins typically encapsulate peroxidases of ferritin-like proteins. They are characterized by the encapsulin shell proteins encoded alongside ferritin-like proteins as cargo. The operons usually include genes for ferroxidase enzymes, critical for iron oxidation. They belong to the Pfam family (Encapsulating Protein for Peroxidase) and use short C-terminal targeting (TPs) for cargo loading. This family of encapsulins provide a controlled environment for iron storage and detoxification, as well as preventing oxidative stress.
Thus tetravalent protactinium in solutions is obtained by the action of strong reducing agents in a hydrogen atmosphere. Tetravalent protactinium is chemically similar to uranium(IV) and thorium(IV). Fluorides, phosphates, hypophosphates, iodates and phenylarsonates of protactinium(IV) are insoluble in water and dilute acids. Protactinium forms soluble carbonates. The hydrolytic properties of pentavalent protactinium are close to those of tantalum(V) and niobium(V). The complex chemical behavior of protactinium is a consequence of the start of the filling of the 5f shell in this element. Uranium has a valence from 3 to 6, the last being most stable. In the hexavalent state, uranium is very similar to the group 6 elements. Many compounds of uranium(IV) and uranium(VI) are non-stoichiometric, i.e. have variable composition. For example, the actual chemical formula of uranium dioxide is UO2+x, where x varies between −0.4 and 0.32. Uranium(VI) compounds are weak oxidants. Most of them contain the linear "uranyl" group, UO2+2. Between 4 and 6 ligands can be accommodated in an equatorial plane perpendicular to the uranyl group. The uranyl group acts as a hard acid and forms stronger complexes with oxygen-donor ligands than with nitrogen-donor ligands. NpO2+2 and PuO2+2 are also the common form of Np and Pu in the +6 oxidation state. Uranium(IV) compounds exhibit reducing properties, e.g., they are easily oxidized by atmospheric oxygen. Uranium(III) is a very strong reducing agent.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
Antimicrobial activity – Citropten may exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties. This characteristic could be relevant for applications in disinfectants or preservatives. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects – Emerging research indicates citropten might have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. These properties could hold promise for various health applications. The pleasant aroma of citropten makes it a valuable component in the fragrance industry, used in perfumes and cosmetics. Its potential antimicrobial properties are also prompting exploration for use in medicine and pharmaceuticals.
== External links == "Real-world Evidence from a Narrow Therapeutic Index Product (Levothyroxine) Reflects the Therapeutic Equivalence of Generic Drug Products". U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 19 November 2020. Archived from the original on 2 October 2020. Levothyroxine pronunciation guide – audio, phonetic spelling, and syllable breakdown
== Description == Small clump-forming from a robust, somewhat woody rootstock with erect, hispid, unbranched stems 25–40 cm (9.8–15.7 in) high. Basal leaves linear elliptic to narrowly lanceolate, 10–15 cm (3.9–5.9 in) long with stalks to 4 cm (1.6 in); stem leaves smaller and sessile, velvety-hairy. Flowers are yellow, 3.5–4.5 cm (1.4–1.8 in) long by 1.2–1.6 cm (0.5–0.6 in) across densely planted on the ends of stems and branches. It flowers from early to late summer. All aerial parts are pubescent.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
BPC-157 is a synthetic fifteen-amino-acid peptide whose sequence corresponds to a fragment of a protein found in human gastric juice. It is studied mainly in preclinical research and is not an approved pharmaceutical product in major markets. Materials sold for laboratory use are typically labelled as research chemicals.
No medicines regulator in the United States or the European Union has approved BPC-157 as a therapeutic product. Presenting it as a drug or as a dietary supplement ingredient would generally not match its regulatory status. Availability as a research chemical does not imply clinical approval.
Published reports rest largely on animal models and cell culture rather than controlled human trials. Review articles describe the proposed mechanisms as incompletely understood. Conclusions about effects in humans therefore remain tentative.
Human data are limited. Most evidence comes from animal experiments and from small or uncontrolled reports. The absence of large trials means clinical effects and safety are not firmly established.