1. What is IGF-1 DES?
IGF-1 DES (Des(1–3) IGF-1) is a truncated form of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 in which the first three amino acids are removed from the N-terminal. This modification dramatically increases its biological activity—especially in local tissue environments—by reducing its affinity for IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). IGF-1 DES is widely studied for its regenerative, anabolic, and anti-catabolic properties in muscle and other tissues.
2. IGF-1 DES Structure
【图片链接https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/substance/135331146】
Sequence:TLCGAELVDALQFVCGDRGFYFNKPTGYGSSSRRAPQTGIVDECCFRSCDLRRLEMYCAPLKAAKSA
Molecular Formula: C319H495N91O96S7
Molecular Weight: 7365.4225 g/mol
PubChem CID: 135331146
CAS Number:112603-35-7
Synonyms: Insulin-like growth factor 1, des-(1-3)-, Des(1-3) IGF-1, 4-70-insulin-like growth factor 1
3. IGF-1 DES Research
IGF-1 DES (1-3) is a truncated isoform of native Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, specifically lacking the first three amino acids at the N-terminal (thus the name “DES (1-3)”). This molecular modification results in:
Up to 10x increased biological potency
Shorter half-life (~20–30 minutes)
Minimal interference from IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs)
These properties make IGF-1 DES highly tissue-specific, ideal for localized anabolic effects, particularly in muscle, cartilage, and skin regeneration contexts.
【1】Mechanism of Action
Binds IGF-1R with enhanced affinity, stimulating downstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK pathways, which regulate:
Muscle cell proliferation
Stem cell activation
Angiogenesis
Wound healing
→ PubMed on IGF-1 Receptor Signaling【https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15308696/】
Limited interaction with IGFBPs results in higher free-circulating bioactivity at tissue sites (NCBI)【https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1082345/】.
Unlike IGF-1 LR3, DES is not systemic, but rather short-acting and site-sensitive, making it a top choice for localized tissue repair or body part-specific hypertrophy.
【2】Key Research Highlights
In vitro and animal studies confirm enhanced myoblast differentiation, satellite cell activation, and angiogenesis at microinjury sites.
Used in sports and regenerative clinics for:
Localized muscle growth (e.g., biceps, quads)
Tendon recovery and joint repair
Skin repair post-laser or trauma
【3】Expert Insight
Hormone Research in Paediatrics: “DES form is particularly suitable for site-directed therapy where regional overexpression of IGF-1 is required without systemic GH elevation.”
Peptides in Regenerative Medicine (2023): “Its brief half-life allows for pulse-therapy targeting musculoskeletal remodeling without systemic risk.”
✅ Why Consider IGF-1 DES?
🔬 Localized potency: 10x more active than IGF-1
💪 Ideal for targeted hypertrophy & injury site-specific healing
🧬 Bypasses IGFBP inhibition, maximizing receptor availability
🛠️ Used in surgical recovery, skin rejuvenation, and tendon repair
⚙️ Best suited for microinjection protocols or post-training site-specific use
⏳ Short action = lower systemic impact, reduced hormonal disruption risk
4. Future IGF-1 DES Research
A. Orthopedic & Tendon Repair Therapies
Studies are exploring DES injections in tendon injury (e.g. Achilles tendinopathy, rotator cuff).
May offer faster collagen remodeling vs. PRP or physical therapy alone.
B. Localized Muscle Growth & Sports Medicine
Used in microdose injections post-resistance training for targeted hypertrophy.
Under review as an adjunct to physiotherapy for sarcopenic patients and post-op muscle loss recovery.
C. Anti-Aging Dermatology
Microneedling + IGF-1 DES protocols tested in rejuvenation therapy for:
Wrinkles
Stretch marks
Acne scarring
May stimulate keratinocyte migration, collagen regeneration, and fibroblast activation
D. Neuroregenerative & Nerve Injury Applications
Though not systemic, DES microdosing is being studied for:
Peripheral nerve damage
Spinal disc regeneration
Local post-trauma brain tissue repair
→ PubMed: IGF-1 neuroregeneration【https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12826628/】
E. Delivery System Innovation
Development of topical microemulsion and hydrogel-based transdermal forms.
Co-administration with BPC-157, TB-500, or GHK-Cu to enhance multi-phase healing.
5. Application Area
🧪 Tissue Repair & Regeneration
Muscle tear recovery
Tendon repair
Ligament enhancement
→ IGF and tendon integrity – PubMed【https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18524708/】
💪 Localized Muscle Growth
Post-injury muscle atrophy
Site-specific hypertrophy in sport contexts
Non-systemic bulking
🧖 Skin & Dermatology
Topical or microneedle-enhanced use in:
Skin tightening
Scar remodeling
Skin volume restoration
🧠 Nerve & Spine Healing
Post-disc injury therapy
Peripheral nerve trauma
Supports neuron-glia repair at local level
🛡️ Recovery & Optimization
Use after surgery, laser resurfacing, PRP, or stem cell injection
Enhances fibroblast growth, ECM rebuilding, and angiogenesis
✅ Summary
IGF-1 DES (1-3) is a hyper-localized regenerative peptide that provides:
✔️ 10x potency at target site vs native IGF-1
✔️ Bypasses IGFBP interference, short but powerful action
✔️ Ideal for targeted injections, dermal repair, and muscle/tendon healing
✔️ Low systemic risk, no prolonged IGF elevation
✔️ Compatible with PRP, stem cells, and other repair peptides
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies(Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
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