Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein complex acid-labile subunit (IGFALS)

Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein complex acid-labile subunit (IGFALS) is a serum protein that forms a ternary complex with IGF1/2 and IGFBP3/5, significantly increasing the serum half-life and stability of IGFs[1][2][3][4][5]. This complex prevents IGF1 and IGF2 from activating their receptor while bound, strictly regulating their bioavailability[2]. IGFALS is part of the leucine-rich repeat (LRR) superfamily and is highly conserved among vertebrates[1][2]. Deficiencies or genetic mutations in IGFALS lead to growth disorders such as idiopathic short stature, delayed puberty, and insulin resistance, while also playing a role in innate immune responses when induced by viral infection[1][3][6]. Despite its central regulatory role, IGFALS is not the direct target of any current drugs, but alterations in its concentration or function can critically affect the therapeutic index of IGF-based treatments and growth modulation strategies[2][3].

Other names

IGFALSALSACLSD ("acid-labile subunit deficiency")Insulin-like growth factor binding protein acid-labile subunitInsulin-like growth factor-binding protein complex acid labile chainInsulin-like growth factor binding protein complex acid labile subunit

For indirect drugs: IGF1 analogs or modulators interact primarily with the IGF1 receptor but their pharmacodynamics may be affected by IGFALS-mediated stabilizing complexes. No approved drugs directly target IGFALS.