What is the Origin of IGF-1 Axis?

The term combines the hormone IGF-1 (named for its structural similarity to insulin and its growth factor function) with axis, denoting its hierarchical regulatory pathway. The axis was defined when researchers discovered that GH's effects were often mediated indirectly through a circulating factor produced primarily by the liver. Its importance is highlighted in conditions related to growth disorders and age-related decline.

What is the Mechanism of IGF-1 Axis?

Growth Hormone (GH) is released from the pituitary and travels to the liver, where it stimulates the synthesis and secretion of IGF-1. IGF-1 then circulates and binds to the IGF-1 receptor on target cells in tissues like muscle, bone, and cartilage. This binding activates intracellular signaling cascades, such as the PI3K/Akt pathway, which promotes protein synthesis, inhibits apoptosis, and drives cellular anabolism. The circulating IGF-1 also exerts a negative feedback effect on GH secretion at the pituitary level.

IGF-1 Axis

Meaning

The IGF-1 Axis refers to the critical endocrine pathway centered on Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, a polypeptide hormone that mediates many of the anabolic and growth-promoting effects of Growth Hormone (GH). This axis is a powerful regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival, playing a major role in tissue growth, muscle accretion, and bone remodeling throughout life. Clinically, measuring IGF-1 levels provides a stable, integrated assessment of GH status.

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