IGF-1 LR3

Disclaimer: The following product is intended solely for research purposes. We do not promote or encourage any consumption outside of authorised trials.

IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analogue of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Its structure differs from IGF-1 in that it has 13 additional amino acids at the N-terminus, making it a total of 83 amino acids long. This modification enhances its biological activity, resulting in a higher affinity for the IGF-1 receptor and a lower affinity for IGF-binding proteins compared to endogenous IGF-1. This lower affinity for IGF-binding proteins allows IGF-1 LR3 to remain in its active, unbound form, where it can bind to IGF-1 receptors.

Mechanism of Action

IGF-1 LR3 and IGF-1 both bind to IGF-1 receptors, the stimulation of which activates pathways, including PI3K/AKT and MAPK, to bring about the following effects:

• Promotion of glucose uptake and subsequent utilisation
• Increase in energy production in cells
• Enhancement of glycolysis
• Increased protein and lipid synthesis
• Coordination of nutrient uptake
• Increase in cell proliferation and differentiation
• Changes in gene expression that support cell cycle progression and tissue growth.

The combination of these activities helps to support cell growth, cell survival, and metabolic health, meaning IGF-1 LR3 could be a useful therapeutic compound.

Therapeutic Potential

Due to its high affinity for the IGF-1 receptor and the benefits that activation of this receptor can provide, it has been investigated for its ability to treat:

• Wounds and Injuries: IGF-1 LR3 supports the regeneration of tendons and nerves after injury, potentially speeding recovery and reducing scar formation. It does this by promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and accelerating tissue repair.
• Neurodegenerative Disease: It promotes neurogenesis and cell survival, possibly protecting against neurodegeneration. It may also help preserve motor function.
• Nerve-Related Problems: Since IGF-1 LR3 supports neuronal survival, growth and function, it can help nerves to regenerate after damage, assisting recovery from peripheral nerve injuries. Because IGF-1 signalling is involved in the management of neuropathic pain, IGF-1 LR3 may be useful in the treatment of nerve pain.
• Obesity and Metabolic Disorders: It can regulate adipose tissue metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles, and enhance glucose metabolism, so it may prove useful in the treatment of metabolic dysfunction.
• Muscle Wasting Conditions: It can counteract muscle wastage by stimulating the synthesis of protein, which supports the growth and regeneration of muscle. It stimulates the proliferation of muscle satellite cells, which are important for muscle regeneration and repair. IGF-1 LR3 also inhibits protein breakdown and suppresses the expression of genes that drive muscle atrophy.
• Cardiovascular Related Issues: It can stimulate the growth and survival of heart muscle cells, promoting cardiac development. Because IGF-1 is involved in the heart’s response to injury, improves contractility, and reduces cardiac fibrosis, it could be used to improve heart function after myocardial infarction.

Safety

Although many animal studies have looked into the potential therapeutic benefits of IGF-1 LR3, human studies are still lacking. Because of the pathways it activates, there is some concern that it may drive the growth of existing cancer cells.

Data Sheet

Conclusion

IGF-1 LR3 activates IGF-1 receptors to produce several potentially beneficial effects, most notably, an increase in cell growth and survival, and metabolic regulation. What we know about the activity of this compound comes mostly from in vitro and animal studies. Human studies will help to further elucidate its therapeutic potential.