Scientific Glossary

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Angiogenesis is triggered by signals including VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), FGF, and PDGF. New blood vessels supply nutrients and oxygen to healing tissue. BPC-157 is one of the most studied research peptides for its proposed pro-angiogenic effects, particularly via VEGF upregulation. Pathological angiogenesis occurs in cancer and diabetic retinopathy, making angiogenesis a complex two-sided research area.

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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.