A peptide that promotes cellular growth and repair, IGF-1 is crucial for muscle recovery, tissue repair, and overall growth.
Common Name:
IGF-1
Compound Name:
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1
Chemical Formula:
C331H512N94O101S7
Molecular Weight:
7649 g/mol
Sequence and Amino Acid Composition:
- Sequence: GPEPTLCGAELVDALQFVCGDRGFYFNKPTGYGSSIRRAPQTGIVDECCFRSCDLRRLEMYCAPLKPAKSA
- Amino Acid Profile:
- Each amino acid plays a crucial role in the structure and function of IGF-1, influencing its ability to bind to the IGF-1 receptor and initiate signaling pathways that promote growth and development.
Structure:
IGF-1 is a single-chain polypeptide hormone structurally similar to insulin, consisting of 70 amino acids. It has three intramolecular disulfide bridges that contribute to its tertiary structure and stability.
Synthesis Method:
IGF-1 is typically produced recombinantly in E. coli or mammalian cell lines to ensure high purity and activity similar to the naturally occurring human form.
Solubility:
Soluble in aqueous solutions at physiological pH.
Stability:
Sensitive to physical stress and temperature changes. It should be stored in a lyophilized form at low temperatures (below -20°C) and reconstituted carefully to maintain its biological activity.
Function:
IGF-1 plays a significant role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. It stimulates the proliferation of various cell types, aids in muscle growth and repair, promotes bone and tissue development, and influences glucose and lipid metabolism.
Benefits and Uses:
- Used therapeutically for growth failure in children and for managing certain conditions associated with severe IGF-1 deficiency.
- Investigated for its potential in muscle regeneration, recovery from injury, and treatment of muscle-wasting diseases.
- Explored for its effects on longevity and aging, particularly its role in cellular repair mechanisms.
Side Effects:
The administration of IGF-1 can lead to several side effects, including hypoglycemia, increased risk of certain cancers, fluid retention, and potential exacerbation of diabetic retinopathy.
Regulatory Status:
IGF-1 and its analogs, like Mecasermin, are FDA-approved for specific medical uses, such as treating growth failure. However, its use in anti-aging and bodybuilding contexts remains controversial and is regulated.