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IGF-1

Aliases: Insulin-Like Growth Factor I

Group: Hormone

Description:

Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) is a peptide that helps regulate the effects of growth hormone throughout the body. It reflects the levels of circulating growth hormone but is less prone to variation. Low levels of IGF-1 may be seen in chronic disease, malnutrition, and dwarfism, while higher levels may be associated with conditions such as hyperpituitarism, obesity, pregnancy, gigantism, and an increased risk of certain cancers. IGF-1 is considered an anabolic hormone and, together with growth hormone, it regulates growth. Measurement of IGF-1 is not affected by the time of day, exercise, or food intake. It may help evaluate growth abnormalities, including short stature and acromegaly. Elevated IGF-1 levels have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. In most cases, elevated IGF-1 concentrations are considered beneficial for various aspects of health and fitness, such as muscle, bone, tendon, body composition, and cognitive function. However, cancer remains a notable exception, as both increased and decreased IGF-1 concentrations can be considered as risk factors for cancer. Therefore, IGF-1 is an important metabolic biomarker that offers insight into physiological processes.