IGF-1 DES(1-3)

Also known as · DES(1-3) IGF-1

Overview

A naturally occurring truncated IGF-1 variant with markedly reduced binding to IGF-binding proteins, making it substantially more potent than intact IGF-1 at the receptor in vitro.

Research profile · for clinicians

Based on research: studied as a high-potency, short-acting IGF-1 form. Literature contrasts its brief, locally intense action with the sustained systemic profile of IGF-1 LR3.

Mechanism of action

Loss of the Gly-Pro-Glu tripeptide reduces IGFBP affinity roughly tenfold, leaving more free peptide available to activate IGF-1R — but also shortening its circulating half-life.

Research record

[01]Reported 5–10× in-vitro potency versus native IGF-1 in cell models.
[02]No controlled human trials; hypoglycaemia risk noted with IGF-1 analogues generally.

Selected references

DES(1-3)IGF-I: biological activity and IGFBP interaction
J. Endocrinol., 1991

Research deep dive

Every cited study, explained

Plain-language walkthroughs of each reference, with direct PubMed links and dosing-literature context.