What is the Origin of IGF-1 Suppression?

The term is derived from the hormone's name, IGF-1, combined with "suppression," which denotes the act of inhibiting or lowering a biological activity. IGF-1 is structurally similar to insulin, hence the name, and its role as a key growth mediator was established in the mid-20th century. The clinical concept of suppression arose with the development of specific pharmacological agents to counteract growth hormone excess.

What is the Mechanism of IGF-1 Suppression?

The most common therapeutic mechanism for IGF-1 suppression involves targeting the Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR) on the surface of liver cells, the primary source of circulating IGF-1. Agents like somatostatin analogs or GH receptor antagonists block the binding of GH to its receptor, thereby preventing the GH-mediated signaling cascade that normally stimulates IGF-1 synthesis and release. This interruption of the GH-IGF-1 axis effectively lowers the systemic concentration of the growth factor.

IGF-1 Suppression

Meaning

IGF-1 suppression is a clinical state or therapeutic goal characterized by the intentional or pathological reduction of circulating Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations in the bloodstream. This powerful anabolic hormone is a primary mediator of Growth Hormone (GH) action, regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and overall body growth. Therapeutic suppression is primarily employed in the management of acromegaly, a condition of GH hypersecretion, to normalize IGF-1 levels and mitigate the systemic effects of excessive hormone activity. Pathological suppression can also occur in states of severe malnutrition or liver dysfunction.

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