Introduction
Peptides studied in the context of muscle growth and physical performance represent one of the most active areas of sports science and endocrinology research. These compounds interact with growth factor receptors, androgen pathways, and metabolic regulators to modulate skeletal muscle hypertrophy, fat oxidation, and exercise capacity in preclinical models.
For research and laboratory use only. Not intended for human or veterinary administration.
Key Research Compounds
IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3)
A synthetic analogue of IGF-1 with a modified N-terminal sequence that reduces binding to IGF-binding proteins, extending its half-life from minutes to approximately 20–30 hours. IGF-1 LR3 signals through the IGF-1 receptor to promote satellite cell activation, protein synthesis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, and inhibition of muscle protein breakdown. Research applications include skeletal muscle hypertrophy models, muscle wasting disease models, and investigation of the GH/IGF-1 axis.
IGF-DES (Des(1-3)IGF-1)
A truncated form of IGF-1 lacking the first three N-terminal amino acids. This modification significantly reduces IGF-binding protein affinity, resulting in greater local tissue activity. IGF-DES has been studied for its potent effects on muscle cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro, and is of interest in research into localised muscle repair and hypertrophy.
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 stress. The pegylated form extends its half-life from minutes to several days, making it suitable for systemic research applications. MGF activates muscle stem cells (satellite cells) and promotes their proliferation prior to differentiation — a distinct mechanism from IGF-1 LR3. Research has investigated its role in post-exercise muscle repair and age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia).
AOD9604
A synthetic peptide fragment of human growth hormone (hGH176-191) that retains the lipolytic properties of GH without affecting IGF-1 levels or insulin sensitivity. AOD9604 has been studied for its ability to stimulate fat breakdown (lipolysis) and inhibit lipogenesis in adipose tissue, making it of interest in body composition and obesity research.
AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide)
A cell-permeable nucleotide that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AICAR has been studied for its ability to enhance mitochondrial biogenesis, increase fatty acid oxidation, and improve endurance capacity in rodent models — even in the absence of exercise. Research applications include metabolic disease models, mitochondrial function studies, and investigation of AMPK signalling pathways.
SLU-PP-332
A synthetic agonist of the ERR (oestrogen-related receptor) family, particularly ERRα and ERRγ. SLU-PP-332 has been studied for its ability to activate exercise-related gene programmes in skeletal muscle, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism. Preclinical research has demonstrated improvements in endurance capacity and metabolic function, positioning it as a compound of interest in exercise mimetic research.
5-Amino-1MQ
A small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme involved in NAD+ metabolism and adipogenesis. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ is hypothesised to increase NAD+ availability and reduce fat cell differentiation. Research applications include obesity models, metabolic syndrome research, and investigation of NAD+ pathway modulation in muscle and adipose tissue.
Research Applications
- Skeletal muscle hypertrophy and satellite cell biology
- Sarcopenia and age-related muscle wasting models
- Body composition and adipose tissue metabolism research
- Exercise capacity and endurance models
- Mitochondrial biogenesis and AMPK signalling research
- GH/IGF-1 axis investigation
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilised peptides at −20°C. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water unless otherwise specified. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 28 days. Avoid agitation and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
All products supplied by Vanta Labs are intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.