Introduction
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and related growth factor peptides are central to anabolic signalling, cellular proliferation, and tissue repair research. These compounds act through the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and related pathways to regulate muscle hypertrophy, satellite cell activation, and systemic growth in preclinical models.
For research and laboratory use only. Not intended for human or veterinary administration.
The IGF Axis
IGF-1 is primarily produced in the liver in response to growth hormone (GH) stimulation, acting as the principal mediator of GH's anabolic effects. IGF-1 signals through the IGF-1R, activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK pathways to promote protein synthesis, cell survival, and proliferation. Local IGF-1 variants (mechano growth factors) are produced in muscle tissue in response to mechanical loading.
Key Research Compounds
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 IGF-1)
A synthetic analogue of IGF-1 with an arginine substitution at position 3 and an N-terminal 13-amino acid extension. These modifications reduce binding to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) by approximately 1000-fold compared to native IGF-1, resulting in a significantly extended half-life (~20–30 hours vs ~12–15 minutes for native IGF-1). IGF-1 LR3 is widely used in research models of muscle hypertrophy, satellite cell activation, and systemic anabolic signalling. Available in 0.1 mg and 1 mg concentrations for dose-response studies.
IGF-DES (Des(1-3)IGF-1)
A truncated form of IGF-1 lacking the first three N-terminal amino acids. This modification reduces IGFBP binding affinity while significantly increasing potency at the IGF-1R — research suggests IGF-DES may be up to 10 times more potent than native IGF-1 in stimulating local tissue growth. IGF-DES is of particular interest in local muscle and tissue repair research models where systemic effects are less desirable.
PEG MGF (PEGylated Mechano Growth Factor)
Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) is a splice variant of IGF-1 produced locally in muscle tissue in response to mechanical damage or exercise. The Ec peptide of MGF activates muscle satellite cells (myoblasts) independently of the IGF-1R, promoting muscle repair and hypertrophy. PEGylation (attachment of polyethylene glycol chains) extends the half-life of MGF from minutes to days, making it more suitable for in vivo research models. PEG MGF is studied in models of muscle wasting, injury repair, and satellite cell biology.
Reconstitution Note
IGF peptides are among the most reconstitution-sensitive compounds in the research peptide category. Use 0.6% acetic acid as the primary solvent for IGF-1 LR3 and IGF-DES to prevent aggregation at neutral pH. After initial dissolution, dilute further with sterile PBS or saline if required for assay conditions. Do not use bacteriostatic water as the primary solvent for these compounds.
Research Applications
- Skeletal muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell activation models
- Muscle wasting and cachexia research
- GH/IGF axis signalling studies
- PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway research
- Tissue repair and wound healing models
- Bone density and osteoblast activity research
- Neuroprotection and neuronal survival models
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilised IGF peptides at −20°C. These peptides are particularly sensitive to improper reconstitution — always use 0.6% acetic acid as the primary solvent. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 21 days. Aliquot before freezing and avoid all freeze-thaw cycles. Do not vortex or agitate.
All products supplied by Vanta Labs are intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.