The IGF-1 Signaling Pathway refers to the cascade of molecular events initiated by the binding of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) to its specific receptor, the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), which is structurally similar to the insulin receptor. This pathway is a fundamental regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and metabolism throughout the body. IGF-1 is predominantly produced in the liver under the stimulation of Growth Hormone (GH), making this axis a critical component of the somatotropic system. Clinical implications include its central role in growth during development and its association with aging, longevity, and metabolic disorders in adulthood.
Origin
The term is derived from the factor itself, IGF-1, which was initially named “sulfation factor” for its effect on cartilage, then later “non-suppressible insulin-like activity” due to its structural and functional homology to insulin. The “signaling pathway” concept refers to the sequential relay of molecular signals from the cell surface receptor into the cell nucleus, a paradigm established through decades of molecular biology research. This endocrine axis has been a focus of endocrinology since the mid-20th century.
Mechanism
Upon IGF-1 binding, the intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity of the IGF-1R is activated, leading to autophosphorylation and the subsequent recruitment and phosphorylation of intracellular substrate proteins, such as Insulin Receptor Substrates (IRS). The signal is then propagated primarily through two major downstream branches: the PI3K/Akt pathway, which regulates cell survival and metabolism, and the Ras/MAPK pathway, which primarily governs cell proliferation. The ultimate function of this pathway is to promote anabolism and inhibit apoptosis in a wide array of tissues.
Sustained Tesamorelin-induced IGF-1 elevation requires careful monitoring due to its influence on cellular growth and metabolism, with long-term implications still under investigation.
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