Biochemistry

    Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

    Definition

    Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) is a 70-amino acid polypeptide hormone with structural homology to insulin that mediates many of the growth-promoting effects of growth hormone. Primarily produced in the liver in response to GH stimulation, IGF-1 circulates bound to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) and acts through the IGF-1 receptor to stimulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and inhibition of apoptosis in virtually all tissues. IGF-1 is central to the GH/IGF-1 axis, and its signaling is a key regulator of musculoskeletal growth, metabolic function, and tissue repair.

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