Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Stress management
Blutwerte · Marker
IGF-1
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 · Somatomedin C · IGF1
Hormone — GH/IGF-AchseZeitabhängig
- Einheit:
- ng/mL
IGF-1 quantifies the level of insulin-like growth factor 1, a hormone involved in growth and development.
Reference Ranges
Age Group
Reference
10–300ng/mL
10
100
150
300
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Optimal
Unit · ng/mLRanges vary by age and sex; typically higher in males and younger individuals.
Overview
Übersicht
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), also known as Somatomedin C, is a hormone primarily produced in the liver, stimulated by growth hormone (GH). It plays a crucial role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. IGF-1 is involved in cellular growth, differentiation, and survival, acting through the IGF-1 receptor to mediate the effects of GH. Clinically, IGF-1 is significant in diagnosing growth hormone deficiencies or excesses, such as acromegaly or pituitary dwarfism. It is also studied in the context of malnutrition, where levels may decrease, and in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), where lower levels have been observed. In the realm of athletic performance and biohacking, IGF-1 is of interest due to its role in muscle growth and repair. Some athletes and biohackers seek to optimize IGF-1 levels to enhance physical performance and recovery. However, elevated levels have been associated with increased cancer risk, and thus, careful monitoring is advised. Caveats include its variability due to age, sex, and nutritional status. IGF-1 levels can be influenced by fasting and time of day, as well as by factors like inflammation and liver function, which can confound results. Therefore, interpreting IGF-1 levels requires consideration of these variables to ensure accurate clinical assessment.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated IGF-1 levels may indicate conditions like acromegaly or gigantism, while reduced levels can suggest growth hormone deficiency or malnutrition. It is also associated with liver disease and metabolic disorders.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising IGF-1 levels may suggest excessive growth hormone activity; re-test in 4 weeks if elevated.
Falling Values
Falling IGF-1 levels could indicate declining growth hormone function or nutritional deficiencies.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Acromegaly
- Gigantism
- Excessive growth hormone therapy
- Insulin resistance
- Liver dysfunction
Cause
Low Levels
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Malnutrition
- Liver disease
- Chronic inflammation
- Aging
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Balanced diet with adequate protein
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Avoid excessive sugar intake
Lever
Supplementation
- Zinc
- Vitamin D
- Creatine
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes, especially when considering supplementation.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
🕐Time-Sensitive
IGF-1 levels can vary throughout the day; morning tests are preferred.
Testing Frequency
Annually for adults with growth concerns or metabolic disorders.
Interfering Factors
- Recent intense exercise
- Acute illness
- Liver dysfunction
Related Peptides & Hormones
Growth Hormone
hormoneDirectly measures
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that while serum IGF-1 is less influenced by inflammation compared to other nutritional markers, its concentration changes are not sufficiently specific for clinical use in diagnosing malnutrition. Researchers have not yet established definitive reference ranges or optimal targets for IGF-1 in various conditions, such as NAFLD and short stature. Additionally, clinical questions remain regarding the precise role of IGF-1 in metabolic disorders and its potential as a therapeutic target.
47 Research Publications
1,461
Total Citations
22
Human/RCT
3.6
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Nutritional Laboratory Markers in Malnutrition.
ReviewInfluence33.0
663
This study examined the role of various serum proteins as biomarkers of nutritional status in patients. Researchers found that serum IGF-1 is less influenced by inflammation and decreases during malnutrition, but its changes are not specific enough for clinical use. The study suggests that while IGF-1 may not be a reliable marker for malnutrition, other biomarkers like prealbumin could predict surgical outcomes and mortality.
02Top
#02
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) as a marker of cognitive decline in normal ageing: A review.
ReviewInfluence3.0
117
Researchers conducted a review on IGF-1 as a potential biomarker for cognitive decline in aging. The study indicated that while IGF-1 levels decrease with age, routine measurement may not provide additional diagnostic value for cognitive decline. Further research is needed to clarify IGF-1's role in cognitive health.
03Top
04
#04
GH and ageing: Pitfalls and new insights.
Review
61
This study explored the complex relationship between growth hormone (GH), IGF-1, and aging. Researchers found that alterations in GH and IGF-1 signaling are associated with longevity and age-related diseases. The findings suggest a biphasic relationship between IGF-1 levels and healthy aging.
05
#05
The AR/miR-221/IGF-1 pathway mediates the pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia.
HumanInfluence1.0
56
Researchers found that the AR/miR-221/IGF-1 pathway plays a crucial role in the development of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The study demonstrated that miR-221 suppresses IGF-1 expression, which is linked to reduced hair growth in AGA patients. This suggests that miR-221 could serve as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target for AGA.
06
#06
miRNA-486-5p: signaling targets and role in non-malignant disease.
ReviewInfluence1.0
49
Researchers reviewed the role of miR-486-5p in non-malignant diseases and its targets, including IGF-1. The study highlighted that miR-486-5p regulates pathways involved in cellular processes, suggesting its potential as a biomarker in various diseases.
07
#07
Protein kinase C beta II suppresses colorectal cancer by regulating IGF-1 mediated cell survival.
HumanInfluence1.0
48
08
#08
Targeting FABP4 in elderly mice rejuvenates liver metabolism and ameliorates aging-associated metabolic disorders.
Lv Jian, et al. · Metabolism: clinical and experimental · 2023
AnimalInfluence1.0
43
Researchers identified FABP4 as a reliable biomarker of aging and metabolic disorders in both humans and mice. The study showed that silencing FABP4 in elderly mice improved metabolic activities and reversed aging-related metabolic issues. This suggests that targeting FABP4 may enhance healthy aging.
Key findings
- 01FABP4 was identified as a reliable aging biomarker in both humans and mice.
- 02Silencing FABP4 in elderly mice rejuvenated their metabolic activities and improved cholesterol and fatty acid breakdown.
- 03Using an FABP4 inhibitor provided metabolic benefits in older mice.
09
#09
Genetic causes of isolated short stature.
ReviewInfluence2.0
40
This study explored the genetic causes of isolated short stature, highlighting the role of the growth hormone (GH) and IGF-1 axis. Researchers found that defects in genes related to this axis are common in children with short stature, indicating the need for genetic studies to identify causes and guide treatment.
10
#10
Insulin-like growth factor-1 and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a systemic review and meta-analysis.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence1.0
39
This meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between IGF-1 levels and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Researchers found that IGF-1 levels were significantly lower in NAFLD patients compared to healthy controls, suggesting that IGF-1 could serve as a potential biomarker for NAFLD. However, significant variability among studies was noted.
Clinical Trials (11)
11
Total Trials
1,356
Total Enrolled
Leptin, IGF1 and the Refeeding Index
NCT01227850COMPLETED
Sponsor
King's College Hospital NHS Trust
Enrollment
35
Refeeding Syndrome
KETOgenic Diet Therapy in Patients With ACROmegaly
NCT06949891RECRUITING
Sponsor
Erasmus Medical Center
Enrollment
60
Started
2023
Primary outcome
IGF-1
Acromegaly Due to Pituitary AdenomaKetogenic DietMediterranean Diet
Effect of a HIIT Program on Quality of Life, Executive Functions, and IGF-1 Response in Sedentary Young University Women
NCT05642169UNKNOWN
Sponsor
University of Seville
Enrollment
75
Started
2022
Primary outcome
Biochemical determinants
Insulin Growth Factor I DeficiencyIGF1 DeficiencyExecutive Function Disorder
Effect of an Amino-Acid-Based Blend on Human Growth Hormone (hGH) and Fibromyalgia (FM) Symptoms
NCT04510181UNKNOWN
Sponsor
Pekarovics, Susan, MD
Enrollment
100
Started
2020
Primary outcome
Change in IGF-1
Fibromyalgia
Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy of IONIS-GHR-LRx in Participants With Acromegaly Being Treated With Long-acting Somatostatin Receptor Ligands
Sponsor
Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Enrollment
43
Started
2018
Primary outcome
Percent Change in Serum Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) From Baseline to 28 Days After Last Dose
Acromegaly
Using IGF-1 for Nutritional Monitoring
NCT03277014COMPLETED
Sponsor
Wang Xinying
Enrollment
197
Started
2013
Primary outcome
Nutrition indicators
Nutritional Supplement
Efficacy and Safety of Pasireotide Long Acting Release (LAR) Versus Octreotide LAR or Lanreotide Autogel (ATG) in Patients With Inadequately Controlled Acromegaly
Sponsor
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Enrollment
198
Started
2010
Primary outcome
Percentage of Participants With a Reduction of Mean GH Levels to < 2.5 µg/L and Normalization of Sex- and Age-adjusted IGF-1.
Acromegaly
Predictive Markers in Chinese Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) Children Treated With Saizen®
Sponsor
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Enrollment
214
Started
2007
Primary outcome
Change From Baseline in Serum Insulin Like Growth Factor-1 Standard Deviation Score (IGF-1 SDS) Levels at Week 4
Dwarfism, Pituitary
A Study To Evaluate The Dose Response And Safety Of PHA-794428 In Adults With Growth Hormone Deficiency
Sponsor
Pfizer
Enrollment
136
Started
2006
Primary outcome
Responder status at visits 9 (week 4) and 14 (week 7), where responder is defined as a patient who has achieved an IGF-1 level above the mid-point of the age-related normal range.
Growth Hormone Deficiency
Study to Define Optimal IGF-1 Monitoring in Children Treated With NutropinAq
Sponsor
Ipsen
Enrollment
251
Started
2004
Primary outcome
Insulin-Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I) Levels Measured Using the Timed Capillary Blood Spot Samples
Turner SyndromeRenal Insufficiency, ChronicPituitary DiseasesDwarfism
Energy Restriction and Hormones in Premenopausal Women
NCT05107804COMPLETED
Sponsor
Penn State University
Enrollment
47
Started
2001
Primary outcome
Change in estrogen and IGF-1
Menstruation DisturbancesLuteal Phase Defect
Publication Trend
Research publications about IGF-1 over time
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