IGF1 & IGF-BP3

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) is a natural hormone the body produces. It contains seventy amino acid polypeptides that are produced by the liver and endocrine hormone system. IGF-1 also plays a role in cell repair to the muscles, brain and heart.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), also called somatomedin C, is a hormone similar in molecular structure to insulin. It plays an important role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults.

IGF-1 is produced primarily by the liver as an endocrine hormone as well as in target tissues in a paracrine/autocrine fashion. Production is stimulated by growth hormone (GH) and can be dysfunctional due to under nutrition, growth hormone insensitivity and lack of growth hormone receptors. Approximately 98% of IGF-1 is always bound to one of 6 binding proteins (IGF-BP).

IGFBP-3, the most abundant protein, accounts for 80% of all IGF binding. IGF-1 binds to IGFBP-3 in a 1:1 molar ratio.

IGF-1 is a primary mediator of the effects of growth hormone (GH). Growth hormone is made in the anterior pituitary gland, released into the blood stream and then stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1. IGF-1 then stimulates systemic body growth and has growth-promoting effects on almost every cell in the body especially skeletal muscle, cartilage, bone, liver, kidney, nerves, skin and lungs.  In addition to the insulin-like effects, IGF-1 can also regulate cell growth and development especially in nerve cells as well as cellular DNA synthesis.

Test details

• Test code: 1107
• Category: Hormone Health
• Kit requirements: SST Serum (Fasting)
• Collection method: CI05.15.01
• Test method: Automated chemistry (Roche Diagnostics)
• Turnaround time: 7 Business Days

What is measured

• IGF-BP3 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3)
• IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor 1)

Common clinical applications

• Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
  • Chronic Fatigue
• Mental and Emotional Health
  • Depression
• Other Health Conditions
  • Lack of stamina
  • Loss of muscle tone
  • Sexual dysfunction

Resources

• Patient Brochure
• Sample Report

This test should be ordered and interpreted with guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Important: Test information is general only. Results should be interpreted with a qualified health practitioner and do not replace medical advice or diagnosis.