Des(1-3)IGF-1
Evidence Grade E — Very limited evidence. 6 published studies. 0 registered clinical trials.
IGF-1 DES is a naturally occurring shortened form of IGF-1, missing its first three amino acids. This small change nearly eliminates binding to regulatory proteins, making it approximately 10 times more potent than normal IGF-1. It was identified in human brain tissue and bovine colostrum. No human clinical trials have been conducted and it has no regulatory approval.
6 published studies: 1 human, 5 animal, 1 in-vitro, 0 reviews
IGF-1 DES has no marketing authorisation. No human clinical trials have been conducted. Animal studies demonstrated approximately 10-fold greater potency than native IGF-1 in growth-promoting assays.
Like IGF-1 LR3, this compound bypasses normal IGF-1 regulation, making standard safety data inapplicable. Products available through unregulated channels lack pharmaceutical quality assurance. The combination of high potency and absent regulatory protein binding creates an unpredictable pharmacological profile for uncontrolled human use.
Research indicates IGF-1 DES activates the IGF-1 receptor through the same signalling pathways as native IGF-1. The removal of the first three amino acids eliminates the primary binding site for IGF binding proteins, meaning the compound is almost entirely 'free' and bioactive. Its short half-life (estimated 20–30 minutes) and high potency create a rapid, intense but brief IGF-1 receptor activation pulse.
Research in animal models from the 1990s established the approximately 10-fold greater potency compared to native IGF-1. Key safety concerns include organ enlargement at low doses (heart, kidney, and gut enlargement observed in animals), hypoglycaemia risk, and theoretical cancer concerns from sustained IGF-1 receptor activation. No human data of any kind exist. Most foundational studies are now over 25 years old, with limited recent research activity. The narrow margin between effective and harmful doses (due to the high potency) makes uncontrolled use particularly risky. Products from unregulated channels lack pharmaceutical quality assurance.
No trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov for this compound.
The information on this page is provided for educational and research reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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