IGF-1 DES
IGF-1 DES, or des(1–3)IGF-I, is an IGF-I variant missing its first three amino acids. It is distinct from intact IGF-I, mecasermin, and long-R3 IGF-I.
At a glance
- Evidence stage
- Preclinical
- Regulatory status
- Research analogue; the cited biochemical and animal studies do not establish an approved human therapeutic use.
- Research context
- IGF-1 DES, or des(1–3)IGF-I, is an IGF-I variant missing its first three amino acids. It is distinct from intact IGF-I, mecasermin, and long-R3 IGF-I.
What this is
- IGF-1 DES, or des(1–3)IGF-I, is an IGF-I variant missing its first three amino acids. It is distinct from intact IGF-I, mecasermin, and long-R3 IGF-I.
What this isn't
- A recommendation to use, prepare, combine, or administer a product
- Evidence that a related molecule or a differently formulated product has the same effects
IGF-1 DES, or des(1–3)IGF-I, is an IGF-I variant missing its first three amino acids. It is distinct from intact IGF-I, mecasermin, and long-R3 IGF-I.
Removing the first three residues alters interactions with IGF-binding proteins, changing how much growth factor remains available to act. A rat-serum biochemical study demonstrated enzymatic generation of the truncated variant and different association with binding-protein complexes. This is evidence about molecular processing and availability, not proof of targeted muscle growth or superior clinical efficacy.
Evidence limits
How to read the evidence
An analytical doping-control study includes des(1–3)IGF-I among substances detectable in blood. Detection-method validation is not evidence that administration is effective or safe, and its human proof-of-principle examples concerned insulin analogues. The guide therefore keeps biochemical, animal, and analytical evidence separate from therapeutic evidence rather than using the presence of human blood samples to imply a human treatment trial.
Sources appraised 2026-10-28. Educational information; not medical advice. Study findings apply to the populations, preparations and outcomes described.
External sources and citations
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