BPC-157 vs TB-500 — How the Two Compounds Compare
BPC-157 and TB-500 are the two most-discussed research peptides, and they are often compared. They are chemically unrelated and come from entirely different parent molecules. This page sets out the factual differences for researchers comparing the two.
Last updated: 2026-08-21 · By: Index Peptides technical team
| BPC-157 | TB-500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Fragment of a protein in gastric juice | Fragment of thymosin beta-4 (Tβ4) |
| Type | 15-amino-acid peptide (pentadecapeptide) | 7-amino-acid acetylated fragment |
| Sequence | GEPPPGKPADDAGLV | Ac-LKKTETQ (Tβ4 17–23) |
| CAS number | 137525-51-0 | 885340-08-9 |
| Molecular weight | ~1419.6 g/mol | ~889.0 g/mol |
| Index Peptides formats | 5mg, 10mg + blends | 10mg + blends |
They come from different parent molecules
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound 157) is a synthetic 15-amino-acid peptide whose sequence is a partial fragment of a protective protein originally identified in human gastric juice. TB-500 is a synthetic 7-amino-acid fragment (the actin-binding region, LKKTETQ) of thymosin beta-4, a 43-amino-acid protein found in most mammalian cells. The two are not related and are not interchangeable.
Different chemistry
BPC-157 (CAS 137525-51-0, ~1419.6 g/mol) is roughly 60% larger than the TB-500 fragment (CAS 885340-08-9, ~889.0 g/mol). Both are supplied as lyophilised powders and both are commonly handled as acetate salts; the exact form is recorded on each batch's certificate of analysis.
Different research literature
Both compounds appear in preclinical, predominantly in-vitro literature. The TB-500 fragment is studied specifically as the actin-binding motif of thymosin beta-4. This page describes the materials and their documentation only.
Blend formats
Index Peptides lists a BPC-157 + TB-500 blend and a three-way BPC-157 + GHK-Cu + TB-500 blend. Each blend is documented with its own batch record that identifies each peptide, and is priced below the combined cost of the separate peptides.
Supply status (both)
Index Peptides supplies both strictly as research chemicals for in-vitro laboratory research. Products are sold exclusively to qualified researchers and licensed laboratories. Neither is for human or veterinary use.
Frequently asked questions
Is BPC-157 or TB-500 'better'?
Neither is 'better' — they are different compounds from different parent molecules, studied in different research contexts. Index Peptides supplies both as research materials only and takes no position on any application.
Is a blend of the two available?
Yes. Index Peptides lists a BPC-157 + TB-500 blend and a three-way BPC-157 + GHK-Cu + TB-500 blend, each with its own batch record identifying each peptide.
How do I verify the identity of each?
Review the published certificate for the exact lot, including the laboratory, report date and analytical results actually reported. HPLC purity alone does not confirm LC-MS identity. Contact us before ordering if a required result is not published.
References
Research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.