Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone that plays a big role in muscle growth, body development and overall physical performance. Human growth hormone (HGH) triggers the release of IGF-1 which is needed for muscle growth and body development. IGF-1 is often compared to other growth factors because of its impact on cellular growth and repair.
INTRODUCTION TO INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR (IGF-1)
Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) is a protein hormone produced mainly in the liver that plays a key role in cell growth and development. This hormone is the master regulator of muscle growth, it facilitates cell proliferation and differentiation. IGF-1 levels are closely tied to growth hormone levels, growth hormone stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1. IGF-I is also involved in tissue repair, wound healing and vascular health, that’s why it’s important in regenerative processes. This is crucial for optimal growth and development especially in skeletal muscle and bone tissue. IGF-1 binds to receptors on muscle cells and promotes cell growth and division through autocrine signaling. Having balanced IGF-1 and growth hormone levels is important for proper bone development during childhood and maintaining muscle mass and strength in adulthood.
VARIANTS OF IGF-1: IGF-1 LR3 AND IGF DES 1,3
IGF-1 exists in two main variants: IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3. IGF-1 LR3 is a modified IGF-1 with an extended amino acid sequence that has 13 additional amino acids at the N-terminus and a substitution of arginine for glutamic acid at position 3. This modification results to a longer half-life of 20-30 hours, IGF-1 LR3 can stay active in the body for a longer period and more potent and effective in muscle growth and development. IGF DES 1,3 is a truncated IGF-1 that is missing the first 3 amino acids at the N-terminus. This variant has a very short half-life of 20-30 minutes, making it more suitable for localized and targeted muscle development. Although it has a shorter duration of action, IGF DES 1,3 is highly effective at the injection site, it binds quickly to receptors on muscle cells and stimulates growth.
IGF-1 LR3 VS IGF DES 1,3 REVIEW
Although functionally related, IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are two different compounds with different structures and degree of actions. This article will try to explore the thin line that separates these closely related compounds so we can identify them uniquely for further research.
It will also try to inform readers what they need to know about these two compounds including their side effects and further side-by-side comparison. Additional information will be posted on where to buy them for any biological engineering or research purpose.
WHAT IS INSULIN LIKE GROWTH FACTOR IGF-1 LR3 VS IGF DES 1,3?
IGF-1 LR3 stands for Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, Long Arginine 3. The compound is a non-natural or artificial protein. It is a longer version of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1). Structurally IGF-1 LR3 is different from its patent compound because of the presence of Arginine instead of glutamic acid at the 3rd position of its amino acid sequence and 13 extra amino acids at the N-terminus. This makes it loosely bound to Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins (IGFBPs). IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are two groups of IGF-1 variants, each with distinct structural and functional properties.
The significance of this weak binding to IGFBPs is that the compound can exert more pharmacological action in animal subjects since IGFBPs decrease the pharmacological activity of hormones that are strongly bound to it. IGF-1 LR3 has a longer half-life compared to the base form of IGF-1, allowing for a longer duration of activity in the body. This longer half-life is beneficial for bodybuilders and athletes as it gives time to bind to receptors and exert hormonal effects.
IGF DES 1,3 stands for Insulin-like Growth Factor Desamino 1,3. It is a natural variant of IGF-1 and extracted from human brain, porcine uterus and bovine colostrum. The compound lacks the first 3 amino acids at the N-terminus which are present in the parent compound. The absence of these peptides makes it less affinity to IGFBPs, thus more effective because it will stay in the host body long enough to exert the desired pharmacological actions; cell proliferation. Both compounds are more potent than the parent compound; IGF-1 in inducing hyperplasia or cellular mitosis upon injection to animal subjects.
IGF-1 LR3 VS IGF DES 1,3 MOA (MECHANISM OF ACTION) AND HALF LIFE
To get even better results than their parent IGF-1, IGF DES 1,3 and IGF-1 LR3 were used separately on animal subjects for trials. It was observed that they bind to Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein (IGFBP) in varying degree. IGF-1 LR3 stays in the host’s body for 20-30 hours. That’s a long half-life, it can exert its pharmacological actions in the host’s body for the same duration. IGF Des 1,3 has a shorter half-life and lasts in the host’s body for as short as 30 minutes but that doesn’t reduce its efficacy as different dosing to laboratory rats made it more potent than its sister analogue compound – IGF-1 LR3.
IGF-1 LR3 reduces the transport of glucose molecules into body cells, thus triggers the use of triglycerides or fat cells to synthesize energy for the body. Burning of fat cells means increase in real muscle weight.
IGF Des 1,3 also signals tissue growth, especially during intense workouts, promoting hyperplasia and targeted muscle development.
The weight gain with IGF-1 therapy is primarily due to muscle growth not water retention. IGF Des 1, 3 on the other hand binds to receptors of cells that are already deteriorated due to production of lactic acid during exercise. That means they can be used and can quickly bind to these receptors of worn-out cells and trigger cellular division and hyperplasia during exercise.
Note that higher doses of IGF-1 especially IGF-1 LR3 can cause hypoglycemia due to its effect on glucose transport.
IGF-1 LR3 AND IGF DES 1,3 EFFECTS
The effects of IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are different due to their structural variations and half-lives. IGF-1 LR3 is good for overall muscle growth and development. It works by inhibiting glucose transport into cells, thus the body will use fat stores for energy production which can aid in fat loss and muscle gain. Studies show that IGF-1 levels may affect body fat reduction and metabolism, IGF-1 is linked to body fat and body mass index. IGF-1 LR3 also reduces inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity thus better metabolic health.
IGF DES 1,3 on the other hand is good for targeted muscle development. It stimulates hyperplasia, the increase in number of muscle cells, making it ideal for muscle building and strength gain. Activating satellite cells with IGF-1 DES can result to more permanent gains in muscle mass, supporting lasting improvements especially during targeted injections and injury recovery. This variant is good for repairing and regenerating muscle tissue in specific areas, enhancing localized muscle growth and recovery.
IGF-1 LR3 AND IGF DES 1,3 BENEFITS AND SIDE EFFECTS
IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are two powerful forms of insulin like growth factor that have gained attention for muscle growth, cell growth and overall physical performance. Each variant has its own advantages based on its half life and mechanism of action, making them suitable for different research and performance goals.
IGF-1 LR3 with its 20-30 hours half life is good for sustained skeletal muscle growth and muscle mass. Its long duration allows for ongoing stimulation of muscle cells, supporting muscle cell proliferation, differentiation and protein synthesis for a longer period. That’s why IGF-1 LR3 is popular for those who want significant increase in muscle growth and improved insulin sensitivity. By promoting cell growth and tissue growth IGF-1 LR3 can also contribute to better recovery and adaptation after resistance training or intense workouts.
IGF DES 1,3 has a very short half life of about 20-30 minutes making it ideal for targeted muscle development and localized muscle growth. Its high affinity for IGF binding proteins allows it to act quickly at the injection site, stimulating hyperplasia and muscle cell proliferation in specific muscle groups. That’s why IGF DES 1,3 is good for post workout recovery, muscle repair and rapid growth in muscle tissue that has been subjected to intense physical performance.
Although both IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 have benefits, they also have side effects especially when used in high doses or for extended periods. Common concerns are disruptions in blood sugar control, changes in insulin sensitivity and risk of hypoglycemia. High doses of IGF-1 LR3 can accelerate fat loss while IGF DES 1,3 can sometimes cause weight gain due to its potent effects on muscle and tissue growth. There are also broader metabolic considerations such as metabolic syndrome, vascular aging and need to monitor protein intake to support muscle building and recovery.
Note that both IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are prohibited by World Anti-Doping Agency and use can have serious consequences for competitive athletes. Long term use can also affect growth hormone levels, insulin like growth and overall metabolic health. As with any growth factor or hormone related compound there is risk of side effects and responsible use under medical supervision is essential.
In summary IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 have benefits for muscle growth, muscle mass and physical performance but should be used with caution. Understanding their half lives, mechanism and side effects is crucial for anyone who will use them. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any regimen involving these compounds especially if you have underlying health conditions or taking other medications.
IGF DES 1,3 VS IGF-1 LR3 RESULTS
Both analogue of IGF-1 acted as endocrine growth factor that improved anabolic effects on the animal host’s muscular tissue although in varying degrees as IGF DES 1,3 was more potent than IGF-1 LR3 in achieving the same result. IGF-1 levels vary and affect metabolic syndrome and factors like muscle strength, healing and overall metabolic health, it’s a complex interplay of biological mechanisms.
IGF DES 1,3 was injected into a specific muscle group of the animal subject several times a day before subjecting the rats to physical activities. The injections were usually done pre workout, 15-30 minutes before activity to maximize muscle pump and growth. Specific muscles of the rats were dosed with a measured vial of the compound. In less than two weeks massive hyperplasia had occurred in the injected muscles as the cells in the tissues of those muscle had repeatedly proliferated. IGF DES 1,3 activates satellite cells which are essential for muscle repair, hypertrophy and generation of new muscle fibers.
IGF-1 Des 1,3 was administered locally to a part of the body for development of only that part, IGF-1 LR3 was administered to a part of an animal subject for overall body effect or development. Also IGF-1 LR3 lasts more than 20 hours in the host’s body while IGF Des 1,3 has 30 minutes half life. These two reasons why IGF Des 1,3 vials had to be injected into animal subjects repeatedly to have more significant results of hyperplasia.
Side effects were however recorded from use of these compounds on laboratory rats. Low blood sugar was recorded after serial administrations of IGF Des 1,3 to animal subjects. Both compounds also enhanced proliferation of cancerous cells in rats with cancerous tumours. IGF Des 1,3 caused reversed testicular atrophy in male Rats with withered testicles.
RESEARCH AND CLINICAL APPLICATIONS
Research has shown that IGF-1 delivery strategies can enhance tendon healing and muscle recovery after strain injuries. IGF-1 is also linked to atherosclerosis and vascular aging, studies have shown its role in modulating glutathione peroxidase expression and activity in vascular endothelial cells. IGF-1 is also important for skeletal muscle growth primarily through the IGF1-Akt/PKB signaling pathway which promotes muscle cell proliferation and differentiation. Clinically IGF-1 is used to treat growth hormone deficiency, improves muscle strength and mobility especially in older women. But misuse of IGF-1 in sports is a big concern and we need to develop effective detection methods to prevent abuse and ensure fair competition.
WHERE TO BUY IGF DES 1,3 and IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are available at Loti Labs. IGF-1 LR3 and IGF DES 1,3 are sold in 1mg vials and should be stored UN-reconstituted at -20 degrees C.
References
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- World Anti-Doping Agency. (2024). Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list
- Lu, H., Huang, D., Saederup, N., Charo, I. F., Ransohoff, R. M., & Zhou, L. (2011). CCR2+ macrophages produce IGF-1 to repair acute skeletal muscle injury. FASEB Journal, 25(1), 358-369. https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.10-171579
- Scavo, L. M., Karas, M., Murray, M., & Leroith, D. (2004). IGF-I stimulates both cell growth and lipogenesis during differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells into adipocytes. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 89(7), 3543-3553. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2003-031842