Scientific Glossary

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FAK (Focal Adhesion Kinase) is activated by integrin receptor engagement when cells contact the ECM. FAK phosphorylates paxillin and other scaffold proteins, initiating signaling cascades that promote cell spreading and migration. BPC-157 research shows it activates the FAK-paxillin pathway specifically in tendon fibroblasts, facilitating their migration to injury sites. This may explain the accelerated tendon healing observed in animal studies. FAK signaling also promotes cell survival (anti-apoptotic) and is involved in angiogenesis.