IGF-1, an endocrine peptide hormone, is encoded by the IGF-1 gene and primarily synthesized in the liver, stimulated by growth hormone (GH). Comprising a sequence of 70 amino acids with three intra-molecular disulfide bridges, IGF-1 shares a molecular structure with insulin, granting it anabolic effects on the body. Employing autocrine and paracrine signaling mechanisms, IGF-1 interacts with its target tissues, contributing to its diverse physiological actions and is a crucial player in regulating various metabolic processes.

Also known as the sulfation factor and NSILA (non-suppressible insulin-like activity), IGF-1 has an alternative name – somatomedin C.

IGF-1 plays a vital role in promoting efficient energy metabolism. It achieves this by sensitizing cells to insulin, facilitating glucose uptake, and increasing fat catabolism, releasing energy to fuel cellular processes. In muscle tissue, IGF-1 supports fat metabolism while simultaneously preserving glucose and up-regulating protein synthesis in individual myocytes. This synergistic effect leads to muscle hypertrophy, characterized by an increase in cell size and subsequent enlargement. Moreover, compelling research demonstrates IGF-1’s ability to reduce overall body fat content.

The multifaceted actions of IGF-1 make it a significant factor in regulating energy balance, growth, and muscle development, thereby holding great promise for therapeutic applications and furthering our understanding of metabolic pathways.