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Insulin-like Growth Factor 1

Growth Factors
IGF-1Somatomedin CMecaserminIncrelex

Overview

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), also known as Somatomedin C or Mecasermin, is an endogenous hormone primarily produced in the liver, although it is also synthesized in other tissues. It belongs to the peptide hormone class and is structurally similar to insulin. IGF-1 plays a crucial role in growth and development, mediating many of the growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (GH). Researchers have extensively studied IGF-1 for its involvement in cellular growth, differentiation, and survival. It is a key factor in bone and muscle growth and has been implicated in aging, cancer, and metabolic diseases. The primary physiological roles of IGF-1 include promoting anabolic processes, such as protein synthesis and cell proliferation, and inhibiting apoptosis. Researchers have observed that IGF-1 is involved in various research areas, including oncology, endocrinology, and gerontology. IGF-1 exerts its effects by binding to the IGF-1 receptor (IGF1R), a receptor tyrosine kinase. Upon binding, it activates intracellular signaling pathways, notably the PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways, leading to cellular growth and survival. This cascade of events is crucial for its role in promoting anabolic processes and inhibiting apoptosis. The pharmacokinetic properties of IGF-1 include a circulating half-life of approximately 20-30 minutes when endogenous. It is metabolized primarily in the liver and kidneys. The bioavailability of IGF-1 can vary depending on the route of administration, with subcutaneous administration being common for therapeutic use. In clinical settings, IGF-1 is used to treat growth failure in children with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency. It is also being investigated for other potential therapeutic applications. Regulatory agencies such as the FDA have approved recombinant IGF-1 (mecasermin) for specific medical conditions, but its use is tightly controlled and requires a prescription.

Mechanism of Action

IGF-1 acts primarily through the IGF-1 receptor (IGF1R), a receptor tyrosine kinase. Upon binding, it activates the PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways, which promote cellular growth, differentiation, and survival.

Half-Life & Pharmacokinetics

EndogenousCirculating half-life ~20-30 minutes
SubcutaneousData limited
IntravenousData limited
OralPoor bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism

The half-life can vary based on binding proteins and the route of administration.

Storage

Temperature

Refrigerate at 2-8°C

Light

Protect from light

Form

Aqueous solution: use within 30 days after opening

Notes

Avoid freezing and excessive heat.

Solubility

IGF-1 is soluble in water, which is relevant for its formulation as an injectable solution.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Prescription only (verschreibungspflichtig), not a controlled substance under BtMG.

🇺🇸US

FDA approved for specific conditions, prescription required.

🇦🇺AU

TGA Schedule 4 (prescription only medicine).

🇬🇧UK

Prescription only medicine (POM) under MHRA regulations.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

10 Research Publications

Transplantation of Neural Stem Cells Loaded in an IGF-1 Bioactive Supramolecular Nanofiber Hydrogel for the Effective Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury.

Unknown

Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) · 2024

Researchers observed that combining neural stem cells with a special gel containing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) enhances the survival and growth of these cells after spinal cord injuries. This treatment not only promotes the regeneration of nerve fibers but also supports the healing of damaged areas in the spinal cord, suggesting a promising approach for improving recovery from such injuries.

  • The IGF-1 gel helps prevent the death of neural stem cells and encourages their growth.
  • This combination promotes the repair of nerve fibers and myelin in injured spinal cord areas.
  • Extracellular vesicles from stem cells may aid in further regeneration and healing.
PubMed

Dysregulation of insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling in postnatal bone elongation.

Review

Biochemistry and cell biology = Biochimie et biologie cellulaire · 2023

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) plays a crucial role in bone growth after birth. They found that disruptions in IGF-1 signaling can lead to stunted growth in conditions like juvenile arthritis, while childhood obesity can cause accelerated growth but poorer bone quality.

  • Dysregulated IGF-1 signaling can lead to growth stunting in autoimmune diseases.
  • Childhood obesity accelerates growth but results in lower bone quality.
  • Understanding IGF-1 signaling is important for addressing chronic diseases.
PubMed

Doping and sports endocrinology: growth hormone, IGF-1, insulin, and erythropoietin.

Review

Revista clinica espanola · 2023

Researchers observed that various banned substances, including growth hormone and erythropoietin, are used by some professional athletes and gym-goers to enhance performance. The review highlights the prevalence, methods of use, and potential side effects of these substances, as well as the detection methods employed by anti-doping agencies.

  • Growth hormone and related substances are commonly used to improve athletic performance.
  • There are specific dosing practices and forms of use among athletes.
  • The review discusses the side effects and detection methods for these banned substances.
PubMed

Insulin-like growth factor 1 reduces coronary atherosclerosis in pigs with familial hypercholesterolemia.

Human

JCI insight · 2023

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) significantly reduced coronary artery plaque in pigs with a genetic condition that raises cholesterol levels. The treatment not only decreased the size of the plaques but also made them more stable, which could be beneficial for heart health.

  • IGF-1 decreased the amount of coronary atheroma in pigs.
  • IGF-1 increased the thickness of the fibrous cap of plaques, making them more stable.
  • IGF-1 reduced levels of triglycerides and markers of oxidative stress in the bloodstream.
PubMed

Insulin-like growth factor-1: A potential target for bronchopulmonary dysplasia treatment (Review).

Review

Experimental and therapeutic medicine · 2022

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) may play a significant role in the development and treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a common lung condition in premature infants. They found that IGF-1 could help reduce lung inflammation and improve lung development in affected children, suggesting it as a potential new treatment target for BPD.

  • IGF-1 promotes lung cell growth and development.
  • IGF-1 can reduce inflammation and cell death in the lungs.
  • There are no specific treatments for BPD currently, making IGF-1 a promising option.
PubMed

Insulin-like growth factor-1 in articular cartilage repair for osteoarthritis treatment.

Review

Arthritis research & therapy · 2021

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) plays a significant role in repairing articular cartilage, which is important for treating osteoarthritis. They highlighted recent advancements in methods to deliver IGF-1 effectively, which could enhance its use in cartilage repair and improve treatment outcomes for osteoarthritis.

  • IGF-1 promotes the growth and maintenance of cartilage cells.
  • It helps in the production of cartilage matrix and prevents cell death.
  • Optimized delivery systems for IGF-1 could improve treatment effectiveness for osteoarthritis.
PubMed

Selective loss of resident macrophage-derived insulin-like growth factor-1 abolishes adaptive cardiac growth to stress.

Unknown

Immunity · 2021

Researchers found that immune cells, specifically resident macrophages, play a crucial role in helping the heart adapt to stress caused by high blood pressure. They observed that the loss of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) from these macrophages prevented the heart from growing and adapting properly, leading to dysfunction. This highlights the importance of macrophages in maintaining heart health under stress conditions.

  • Resident macrophages are essential for heart adaptation to hypertension.
  • Loss of IGF-1 from macrophages disrupts heart growth and function.
  • A similar macrophage population expressing IGF-1 was identified in human heart disease.
PubMed

Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) Signaling in Glucose Metabolism in Colorectal Cancer.

Review

International journal of molecular sciences · 2021

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays a significant role in how colorectal cancer cells process glucose, which may be linked to increased cancer risk in patients with metabolic syndrome. They highlighted the need for more understanding of the mechanisms involved and discussed potential treatments targeting glucose metabolism in colorectal cancer.

  • Colorectal cancer risk is higher in patients with metabolic syndrome.
  • High glycemic index diets may increase colon cancer risk through IGF-1 signaling.
  • Current therapies are exploring ways to correct impaired glucose metabolism in colorectal cancer.
PubMed

Mechanisms of IGF-1-Mediated Regulation of Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy and Atrophy.

Review

Cells · 2020

Researchers observed that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) plays a crucial role in building and maintaining skeletal muscle by promoting protein synthesis and inhibiting muscle breakdown. They found that IGF-1 helps muscle regeneration and is affected by chronic diseases, which can lead to muscle loss.

  • IGF-1 increases muscle protein synthesis through specific cellular pathways.
  • IGF-1 can inhibit factors that contribute to muscle breakdown.
  • Chronic diseases can lower IGF-1 levels, leading to muscle atrophy.
PubMed

Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Deficiency and Cirrhosis Establishment.

Review

Journal of clinical medicine research · 2017

Researchers observed that cirrhosis, a severe liver condition, often leads to a deficiency of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which can worsen malnutrition and liver damage. They found that restoring IGF-1 levels may help improve the health of cirrhotic patients, suggesting a potential new treatment approach.

  • Cirrhosis is a major global health issue and can be caused by various factors.
  • IGF-1 deficiency is common in patients with cirrhosis and contributes to their worsening condition.
  • Studies indicate that IGF-1 replacement may offer therapeutic benefits for cirrhotic patients.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.