IGF-1 DES
Also called des(1-3)IGF-I
A shortened form of insulin-like growth factor 1 that is more potent than regular IGF-1 in some lab tests. Claims of targeted muscle growth outrun the evidence, and animal studies show strong blood-sugar-lowering effects.
Overview
What it is
IGF-1 with its first three amino acids (Gly-Pro-Glu) removed. It occurs naturally in some tissues. It is different from IGF-1 LR3 and from the removed Gly-Pro-Glu fragment.
How it works
It binds weakly to IGF-binding proteins while still activating the IGF-1 receptor, so more of it stays active. In rat muscle cells, this produced stronger differentiation than regular IGF-1.
What the research shows
In rats made to break down tissue with dexamethasone, DES and LR3 were about 2.5 times as potent as regular IGF-1 at improving protein balance, and the gut grew along with muscle. A rat tracer study showed DES clears from blood faster, yet in pigs and monkeys it lowered blood sugar for longer.
Studied for
- Muscle cell differentiationlab
- Protein balance in catabolic ratsanimal
- Blood glucose loweringpigs, monkeys
Safety and regulatory status
Safety and side effects
Low blood sugar is a serious concern. No human side-effect rates exist. The approved IGF-1 medicine mecasermin carries warnings for severe hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, raised intracranial pressure and cancer-related risks. Confusion, seizure or loss of consciousness needs emergency care.
Regulatory status
Not FDA approved. Prohibited at all times by WADA as an IGF-1 analogue.
Common questions
Is IGF-1 DES the approved IGF-1 medicine?
No. Increlex (mecasermin) is a different product with pediatric growth indications.
Does a short half-life make it safer?
No. Animal studies show effects can last longer than blood levels suggest.
Is it a growth hormone peptide?
No. It is an IGF-1 variant, not growth hormone or a growth-hormone releaser.
Related in Performance and Recovery
Sources and further reading (6)
- Ballard FJ, et al. Des(1-3)IGF-I: a truncated form of IGF-I. Int J Biochem Cell Biol, 1996.
- Tomas FM, et al. IGF-I variants are anabolic in dexamethasone-treated rats. Biochem J, 1992.
- Tomas FM, et al. IGF-I variants show prolonged hypoglycaemic action in pigs and marmosets. J Endocrinol, 1997.
- DailyMed. Increlex (mecasermin) prescribing information.
- WADA. The Prohibited List, S2.3.
- Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).