A fragment of thymosin beta-4 that promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and improves recovery.
TB-500 is a synthetic peptide based on the actin-binding domain of thymosin beta-4 (Tβ4), a naturally occurring 43-amino acid peptide produced in virtually every cell of the human body. Thymosin beta-4 plays a fundamental role in cell migration, wound healing, blood vessel formation, and tissue protection after injury.
TB-500 specifically corresponds to the 4-14 sequence of thymosin beta-4 (and is sometimes labeled as Tβ4 fragment 17-23 depending on the numbering convention). This fragment preserves many of the parent molecule's tissue-repair properties. It promotes upregulation of actin — a protein critical for cell migration, contraction, and structural integrity — which underlies its healing effects.
In clinical contexts, TB-500 is most commonly used in combination with BPC-157 for synergistic tissue repair. While BPC-157 primarily promotes healing through angiogenesis and growth factor modulation, TB-500 works through actin regulation and cell migration — the combination theoretically provides complementary mechanisms. Both are research peptides without FDA approval.
Preclinical research demonstrates TB-500's role in accelerating wound healing, tendon repair, muscle regeneration, and cardiac tissue repair after heart attack. The peptide has been studied in horses (veterinary medicine) where it has been used — and banned by racing authorities — for injury recovery.
A notable preclinical finding is cardiac regeneration: TB-500 appears to recruit cardiac stem cells to injury sites and promote cardiomyocyte survival. This has attracted interest for heart failure research. WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) banned TB-500 and thymosin beta-4 for competitive athletes.
📚 Key Reference: PMID: 20545736 (TB-500 wound healing), PMID: 24531556 (cardiac effects)
Preclinical safety profile is generally favorable. Limited human clinical data. No established toxicity in animal studies. Main concerns are quality of source material and regulatory status. WADA banned substance for competitive athletes. Consult your provider.
NOT FDA-approved. Research use only. Available through compounding pharmacies. WADA prohibited for competitive athletes. Regulatory status evolving.