Naturally shortened form of IGF-1 that lacks the first three amino acids. Used in laboratory research; no human studies exist.
Regulatory status
Not approved
Family
Truncated variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
Scientific evidence
Low
Number of findings
1
Where it acts
Bones and muscles · Hormones and metabolism
Also known as
IGF-1 DES, des(1-3)IGF-I, DES IGF-1
Regulatory status
FDA (US): Not approved. The approved IGF-1 is a different product: mecasermin (Increlex), only for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency in children.
EMA (EU): Not approved. Mecasermin (Increlex) is the only authorized IGF-1.
Dose
There is no established dose in humans.
Safety
No human data. Given its potency, a risk of hypoglycemia can be expected, and its cell-growth-stimulating effect is a concern. Banned in sport. Its use only makes sense in research or under medical supervision; buying it is not recommended.
Effect by goal · level of evidence
Higher potency than IGF-1 in the laboratory
increasesLowreview (A)animals / laboratory
Review of laboratory and animal studies: the variant has been isolated in colostrum, brain, and uterus, and is more active than IGF-1 because it binds poorly to its carrier proteins.
Having lost its first three amino acids, it barely binds to the proteins that normally “sequester” IGF-1 in the blood. As a result it stays freer and is more potent in tissues than normal IGF-1.
What the evidence says
In people
There are no published trials in people.
In animals or the laboratory
Potency superior to IGF-1 in the laboratory. Review of laboratory and animal studies: the variant has been isolated in colostrum, brain, and uterus, and is more active than IGF-1 because it binds poorly to its carrier proteins. PubMed 8930132