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

The **Insulin-like growth factor 1 pathway** refers to a complex network of molecular interactions centered on insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1), a polypeptide hormone structurally similar to insulin. This signaling axis is primarily activated by growth hormone stimulation of hepatic IGF‑1 synthesis and involves multiple components including ligands (IGF‑1 and IGF‑2), receptors (notably the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor [IGF‑1R]), high-affinity binding proteins, and downstream intracellular signaling cascades such as PI3K/Akt and MAP kinase pathways[2][3]. The biological effects mediated by this pathway include promotion of cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis, metabolic regulation, tissue development and maintenance across many organ systems[2][3]. Dysregulation or overactivation is implicated in diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders[2][3]. **Note:** “Insulin-like growth factor 1 pathway modulation” is not itself a canonical therapeutic target; rather it describes pharmacological intervention at various nodes within this signaling cascade. The actual drug targets are typically specific molecules within this system—most commonly the **insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor** (IGF‑1R)[2][3]. Therefore, this entry should be flagged as incorrect for use as a canonical target name.

Other names

IGF-1 signalingGrowth hormone/IGF-1 axisSomatomedin C pathway