1. IGF-1 LR3 and Muscle Healing
Insulin-like growth hormone is involved in muscle regeneration and healing. It stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of myoblast. One study found that direct recombinant IGF-1 LR3 administration at days 2, 5, and 7 accelerated muscle healing in mice with strain-injured muscles [1].
Another study replicated the results when researchers evaluated the IGF-1 effects on muscle damage in mice. They found an increase in muscle regeneration and healing in terms of fast twitching in mice treated with IGF-1 compared to the control group. Moreover, IGF-1 was observed to be associated with an increased number of regenerating myofibres on the treated site [2]. Muscle mass and strength decrease with advancing age, and so does the ability to regenerate. The research shows that IGF-1 treatment in the elderly can preserve lean muscle mass [3].
2. IGF-1LR3 and Hypertrophy
Myostatin, also known as growth differentiation factor 8, is an important protein that regulates muscle growth and development. It negatively impacts muscle mass by inhibiting muscle growth and protein synthesis. It prevents unwanted hypertrophy and promotes muscle healing following injury.
Insulin-like growth factor 1, as an inhibitor of myostatin, prevents muscle breakdown in conditions like muscular dystrophy [4, 5]. Further, IGF-1 stimulates the proliferation of myoblast, thus causing an increase in the number of muscle cells (hyperplasia). IGF-1 LR3 due to its increased potency has a much greater effect on cell proliferation compared to IGF-1 [6].
3. IGF-1 LR3 and Diabetes
IGF-1 has a significant effect on glucose regulation. It binds to IGF-1 and insulin receptors that mediate glucose uptake from blood to the liver and muscle cells. This results in decreased blood sugar levels. Research shows that IGF-LR3 is associated with a significant increase in glucose uptake and decrease blood glucose levels [7, 8].
In one study, IGF-1 administration in rats with diabetic cardiomyopathy decreased myocardial apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, interstitial fibrosis and metabolic abnormalities. Further, it caused an increase in the activation of the Akt/GSK-3β pathway, indicating that IGF-1 could be a potential therapy for diabetic cardiomyocytes [9].
4. IGF-1 LR3 and Bone Health
Insulin-like growth hormone is a critical mediator of bone health. In a cross-sectional study, 482 postmenopausal women with diabetes and 482 postmenopausal without diabetes were recruited in a bone health survey. The researchers found that IGF-1 levels were lower in diabetic women with vertebral fractures, suggesting IGF-1 as a marker for the severity of vertebral fractures [10].
A review of 39 clinical studies found that IGF-1 and growth hormone administration showed increased bone resorption and bone formation. Furthermore, IGF-1 enhanced bone healing and promoted rapid improvement in patients with Tibia and hip fractures [11].
5. IGF-1LR3 and Cognition
Research shows that IGF-1 protect the loss of neurons by stimulating cellular process that promotes cell survival. In one study, long-term IGF-1 administration in old age animals increased neurogenesis, vascular density and glucose utilization in brain parts responsible for memory and learning [12].
One study conducted on rats found IGF-1 administration to increase excitatory synaptic transmission in CA1 by 40%. It also found that the increased post-synaptic mechanism was due to the involvement of α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) receptors. Further, it revealed that PI3k inhibitors blocked the enhanced post-synaptic transmission, suggesting this effect might be dependent on PI3k activation [13].
6. Summary:
GF-LR3 is a synthetic analog of insulin-like growth hormone. Due to the structural difference, it has a longer half-life and prolonged duration of action. It might be involved in muscle healing, bone health and improving insulin sensitivity. Further research is needed to confirm these effects. At Element Sarms, IGF-LR3 purchase is available for research purposes. Only buy IGF-LR3 if you are a licensed researcher.