Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) (IGF-1)

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a 70-amino acid polypeptide that serves as the primary mediator of growth hormone (GH) action [1, 4]. Produced predominantly in the liver under GH regulation, it also functions locally in various tissues through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms to promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis [1, 3]. IGF-1 binds to the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), a transmembrane tyrosine kinase, activating the PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways essential for longitudinal bone growth and muscle development [4]. In clinical practice, recombinant human IGF-1 (mecasermin) is utilized as a replacement therapy for children with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency or GH gene deletion who have developed neutralizing antibodies to GH [2]. Beyond growth, IGF-1 influences glucose metabolism and has been investigated for its role in neuroprotection and cardiovascular health [1, 4]. However, therapeutic use requires careful monitoring due to risks such as hypoglycemia and potential mitogenic effects that could promote malignancy [2, 4]. Dysregulation of the IGF-1 axis is also a hallmark of acromegaly and is frequently implicated in the progression of various solid tumors [3, 4].

Other names

Somatomedin-CIGF-IMechano growth factorMGFIGF1

Recombinant human IGF-1 acts as an agonist by binding to the type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R), which triggers intracellular signaling cascades (PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways) to promote growth and metabolic effects [2, 4].