IGF-1 DES — EU research guide.
IGF-1 DES (des(1-3)IGF-1) is a truncated form of IGF-1 lacking the first three N-terminal amino acids. It has ~10x higher potency than IGF-1 at the IGF-1R but does not bind IGF-binding proteins, giving it purely local activity.
What is IGF-1 DES?
IGF-1 DES is a naturally occurring variant of IGF-1 produced primarily in the brain and gut. Removal of the first three amino acids (Gly-Pro-Glu) dramatically reduces binding to IGFBPs (IGF-binding proteins), which normally sequester ~99% of circulating IGF-1. Without IGFBP binding, DES acts locally at the injection site rather than distributing systemically, making it a tool for studying local IGF-1R signalling.
What does the research show?
DES IGF-1 shows ~10x greater receptor binding potency than standard IGF-1 in vitro. Animal studies demonstrate local muscle hypertrophy, satellite cell activation and neuroprotective effects in brain injury models. The localised action profile distinguishes it from IGF-1 LR3 (systemic, long-acting). Research interest spans muscle biology, brain repair and cancer cell signalling.
EU legal status
Not approved anywhere. WADA-prohibited (S2). Available from EU research vendors for laboratory growth factor research only.
Molecular information
Pharmacokinetics
IGF-1 DES across EU suppliers
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