IGF-1 peptide works by binding to IGF-1 receptors on cells. This activates a signaling cascade that leads to cell growth, division, and differentiation. IGF-1 also promotes the synthesis of proteins, which are essential for building and repairing tissues.
The IGF-1 signaling cascade involves a number of different proteins, including:
- IGF-1 receptor
- Insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1)
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)
- Akt
- mTOR
When IGF-1 binds to the IGF-1 receptor, it activates IRS-1. IRS-1 then activates PI3K, which produces PIP3, a signaling molecule that activates Akt. Akt is a protein kinase that phosphorylates a number of other proteins, including mTOR. mTOR is a protein kinase that regulates cell growth and division.
The IGF-1 signaling cascade also activates other signaling pathways, such as the MAPK pathway. The MAPK pathway is involved in cell growth, division, and differentiation.
IGF-1 is a key regulator of growth and development in children and adolescents. It also plays a role in maintaining muscle mass and bone density in adults. IGF-1 is also involved in regulating metabolism and glucose levels.
IGF-1 peptide and cancer
IGF-1 peptide is a potent growth factor, and it can promote the growth of cancer cells. This is why IGF-1 peptide is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any use.
Researchers are working to develop IGF-1 inhibitors that could be used to treat cancer. IGF-1 inhibitors are drugs that block the IGF-1 signaling cascade. This could help to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.
IGF-1 peptide and other diseases
IGF-1 peptide is also being investigated for the treatment of other diseases, such as:
- Muscle wasting
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
More research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of IGF-1 peptide for the treatment of these conditions.
IGF-1 peptide is a synthetic version of the human insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) hormone. It works by binding to IGF-1 receptors on cells and activating a signaling cascade that leads to cell growth, division, and differentiation. IGF-1 peptide has a number of potential benefits, but it also has some potential risks, including an increased risk of cancer. More research is needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of IGF-1 peptide for the treatment of a variety of conditions.
