IGF-1 DES
Also known as: IGF-1 DES, IGF-DES
IGF-1 DES is a truncated variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 missing the first three N-terminal amino acids, studied for potent, localized anabolic and tissue-growth effects. It is noted for higher activity at the site of injection.
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Mechanism of Action
IGF-1 DES (1-3) lacks the N-terminal tripeptide of native IGF-1, which dramatically reduces its binding to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). With less sequestration by IGFBPs, more free peptide is available to activate the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), a receptor tyrosine kinase that drives PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling to promote cell proliferation, protein synthesis, and hypertrophy. Its short half-life and reduced binding tend to concentrate activity in the tissue where it is administered.
- Half-life
- Very short; roughly 20 to 30 minutes
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Potent activation of IGF-1 receptor signaling
- Promotes muscle protein synthesis and hyperplasia in models
- Localized anabolic effect near the injection site
- Reduced binding-protein sequestration increases free activity
- Studied for muscle growth and tissue repair
Potential Side Effects
- Localized swelling or discomfort
- Potential hypoglycemia due to insulin-like activity
- Theoretical risk of stimulating abnormal tissue growth
- Limited human safety data
Common Dosing
Research-use only, not medical advice. The literature references small subcutaneous amounts, commonly in the tens to low hundreds of micrograms per administration, often targeted near the tissue of interest.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Active or suspected malignancy
- Hypoglycemia or unstable blood glucose
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 IGF-1) is an engineered, long-acting analog of insulin-like growth factor 1 studied for sustained anabolic and tissue-growth signaling. Its modifications give it a far longer half-life than native IGF-1.
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
MGF is a splice variant of IGF-1 produced locally in muscle in response to mechanical loading or damage. It is studied for its role in activating muscle stem cells and supporting tissue repair.
PEG-MGF
PEG-MGF is a pegylated form of Mechano Growth Factor engineered for greater stability and a longer systemic half-life than native MGF. It is studied for muscle stem cell activation and recovery.
CJC-1295
A long-acting growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary to produce more growth hormone. Often paired with a ghrelin mimetic for synergistic GH release.
Ipamorelin
A selective ghrelin receptor agonist (growth hormone secretagogue) prized for stimulating GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Considered one of the gentler GH peptides.
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Des(1-3)IGF-I: a truncated form of insulin-like growth factor-I
1996
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Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding proteins inhibit the biological activities of IGF-1 and IGF-2 but not des-(1-3)-IGF-1
1989
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Enhanced potency of truncated insulin-like growth factor-I (des(1-3)IGF-I) relative to IGF-I in lit/lit mice
1990
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Effects of full-length and truncated insulin-like growth factor-I on nitrogen balance and muscle protein metabolism in nitrogen-restricted rats
1991