A clinical strategy focused on enhancing the signaling capacity of the Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) axis, a critical pathway for anabolic and growth-promoting effects in the body. Up-regulation aims to increase the bioavailability or cellular response to IGF-1, which is predominantly produced by the liver under the influence of Growth Hormone (GH). This intervention is clinically employed to support muscle protein synthesis, bone density, and cognitive function, particularly in individuals with age-related GH/IGF-1 decline.
Origin
The term is derived from the Growth Hormone-IGF-1 axis, a major neuroendocrine system, and the biological concept of ‘up-regulation,’ meaning an increase in the number of receptors or the strength of a signal. Its clinical application stems from decades of research in endocrinology and gerontology linking the decline of this axis to sarcopenia and frailty. The term describes the deliberate effort to restore youthful anabolic signaling capacity.
Mechanism
Up-regulation can be mechanistically achieved by stimulating endogenous Growth Hormone release, often through secretagogues or specific peptides, which subsequently prompts the liver to produce more IGF-1. Alternatively, the focus can be on improving the sensitivity of peripheral tissue receptors to the circulating IGF-1. The enhanced signal activates downstream pathways, such as the PI3K/Akt pathway, driving cellular proliferation, differentiation, and overall anabolic state throughout the organism.
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