Predrag Sikiric, M.D., Ph.D.
University of Zagreb, Croatia
Pioneering researcher of BPC-157; foundational cytoprotection and tissue-healing studies.
BPC-157 is a synthetic 15-amino acid pentadecapeptide derived from a protective protein in human gastric juice. It promotes tissue-repair signaling by upregulating VEGF pathways, stimulating tendon fibroblast migration, and accelerating collagen synthesis — validated in preclinical musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal healing models.
Mechanism of action
- Upregulates VEGF expression supporting angiogenic responses at injury sites.
- Stimulates fibroblast migration and tenocyte outgrowth in tendon-injury models.
- Modulates the nitric oxide system and growth-factor signaling tied to wound healing.
- Demonstrates cytoprotective effects across gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal tissues in preclinical studies.
Research highlights
- Sikiric lab (Zagreb) published dozens of foundational preclinical studies establishing cytoprotection.
- Staresinic et al. (2003): seminal study on accelerated Achilles tendon recovery.
- Pharmaceuticals (MDPI, 2025) multi-system review on post-surgical recovery, sports medicine, and wound care.
Regulatory note: In 2025 the FDA officially prohibited BPC-157 outside of formally approved research contexts. All references here are to preclinical and research-only data.