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Bovine Pituitary Gland

Also known as: Bovine Pituitary Extract, BPE, Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract

Overview

Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract (BPE) is a substance derived from the pituitary glands of cattle. Its primary application is in cell culture, where it is used to promote cell growth and maintain cell phenotype. BPE contains a mixture of growth factors that stimulate cell division and proliferation. While it is sometimes considered as a dietary supplement, research on its effects in humans is limited, and most evidence comes from in vitro studies. The quality of available evidence is low, with scarce human clinical trials. Potential benefits in cell culture include promoting cell proliferation and maintaining cell phenotype, particularly in keratocytes. Some studies also suggest potential antioxidant effects in certain cell types. However, due to the limited research on human health effects, caution is advised when considering its use outside of cell culture applications.

Benefits

The primary documented benefit of Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract (BPE) is its ability to promote cell proliferation and maintain cell phenotype in cell culture, particularly in keratocytes, as demonstrated in in vitro studies. Some research suggests potential antioxidant effects in certain cell types. However, there is a significant lack of high-quality evidence supporting its use as a dietary supplement for human health benefits. No specific population benefits are well-documented for human use, and effect sizes and clinical significance are not well-established in humans. The time course of benefits is also not established for human use. Therefore, the benefits of BPE are primarily limited to cell culture applications, and its efficacy and safety as a human supplement remain largely unproven.

How it works

Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract (BPE) contains growth factors that stimulate cell division and proliferation. These growth factors interact with growth factor receptors on cells, initiating intracellular signaling cascades that promote cell growth and survival. The specific biological pathways and molecular targets involved are not fully understood, especially in the context of human consumption. The absorption and bioavailability of BPE when taken orally are also not well-studied. Its interaction with body systems in humans is poorly understood due to the limited research in this area. Therefore, the mechanism of action is primarily understood in the context of cell culture, where it directly stimulates cell growth through growth factor signaling.

Side effects

Due to limited data on human safety, the side effects of Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract (BPE) are not well-documented. Potential risks include contamination or allergic reactions, especially for individuals with allergies to bovine products. Drug interactions are unknown, and contraindications include potential allergies to bovine substances. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to the lack of safety data. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-established. Overall, the safety profile of BPE in humans is poorly understood, and caution is advised when considering its use. Further research is needed to fully assess the potential adverse effects and risks associated with BPE consumption.

Dosage

There are no established dosage guidelines for Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract (BPE) for human use. The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose have not been determined. Timing considerations and form-specific recommendations are also not established. Absorption factors are not well-studied, and required cofactors are unknown. Due to the limited research on human health effects and safety, it is not possible to provide specific dosage recommendations. Caution is advised, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before considering the use of BPE as a dietary supplement.

FAQs

How should I use Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract?

There is limited guidance on how to use BPE as a dietary supplement due to a lack of research. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Is Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract safe?

Potential risks include contamination or allergic reactions. Limited data exists on human safety, so caution is advised.

What are the expected results from taking Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract?

Expected results are not well-documented for human health benefits. Most studies focus on cell culture applications, not human consumption.

What are the risks of taking Bovine Pituitary Gland Extract?

The risks of taking BPE include potential contamination, allergic reactions, and unknown long-term effects due to limited human studies.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14690452/ – This in vitro study on keratocytes found that Bovine Pituitary Extract (BPE) promotes keratocyte proliferation and maintains their phenotype. The study provides insight into cell culture applications but lacks relevance to human health due to its in vitro nature.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3874512/ – This in vitro study on RWPE-1 cells suggests that BPE has antioxidant potential. The study offers preliminary insights into potential antioxidant effects but requires further human studies to confirm these findings.
https://www.avantorsciences.com/us/en/product/27885692/bovine-pituitary-extract-mp-biomedicals – This is a product description indicating that BPE is used in cell culture to enhance cell growth. It provides basic information on BPE's use in cell culture but does not address human health effects or provide research data.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/1/265 – This study investigates the effects of bovine pituitary extract on cell growth and differentiation. The findings suggest potential benefits in promoting cellular proliferation, but further research is needed to validate these effects in vivo.
https://academic.oup.com/endo/article-abstract/76/4/578/2702054 – This study examines the hormonal activity of bovine pituitary extract. The results indicate the presence of various hormones, which may contribute to its biological effects. However, the study's relevance to human health requires further investigation.