IGF-DES

IGF-DES (Des(1-3)IGF-1)

IGF-DES, formally designated Des(1-3)IGF-1, is a naturally occurring truncated isoform of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in which the first three N-terminal amino acids (Gly-Pro-Glu) have been removed. This truncation is generated in vivo by specific proteolytic cleavage in the brain and other tissues, and results in a molecule with markedly altered binding properties compared to full-length IGF-1. IGF-DES has approximately 10-fold lower affinity for IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) than full-length IGF-1, while retaining full potency at the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), making it a highly bioavailable and potent research tool for studying IGF-1R-mediated signalling in the absence of IGFBP-mediated sequestration.

Mechanism of Action

IGF-DES acts as a full agonist of the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), a receptor tyrosine kinase that activates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Ras/MAPK/ERK signalling cascades upon ligand binding. These pathways mediate the anabolic, anti-apoptotic, and proliferative effects of IGF-1 signalling in muscle, bone, neural, and other tissues. The critical distinction of IGF-DES from full-length IGF-1 is its dramatically reduced affinity for IGFBPs (particularly IGFBP-3), which normally sequester the majority of circulating IGF-1 and limit its bioavailability. By bypassing IGFBP binding, IGF-DES provides a research tool for studying IGF-1R activation in a context that more closely approximates free, unbound IGF-1 activity, and is particularly useful for investigating local tissue IGF-1 signalling independent of systemic IGFBP regulation.

Research Applications

• IGF-1R pharmacology and receptor tyrosine kinase signalling studies
• PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK pathway activation research
• IGFBP-independent IGF-1 signalling and bioavailability investigation
• Muscle hypertrophy, satellite cell activation, and anabolic signalling research
• Neuroprotection, neurogenesis, and CNS IGF-1R function preclinical models

Specifications

• Molecular Formula: Truncated IGF-1 analogue (Des(1-3)IGF-1)
• Molecular Weight: 7371.4 g/mol
• CAS Number: 112603-35-7
• Purity: ≥98%
• Form: Lyophilised powder
• Storage: -20°C
• Shelf Life: 24 months

This product is intended for legitimate laboratory and analytical research use only. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumer use.