For research use only. IGF-1 LR3 is not approved by the FDA for human use and is sold exclusively as a research chemical. Not for human consumption.
What Is IGF-1 LR3?
IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long Arg3) is a synthetic analogue of human IGF-1 featuring an arginine substitution at position 3 and an additional 13 amino acid extension at the N-terminus. These structural modifications significantly reduce its binding affinity for IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), resulting in a substantially longer half-life compared to native IGF-1. This extended bioavailability in research models makes IGF-1 LR3 a widely used tool in cell biology and tissue research, where sustained receptor activation is required.
IGF-1 LR3 in Laboratory Research
- Muscle cell biology: IGF-1 LR3 is one of the most widely used research reagents in myoblast and satellite cell studies, where it activates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and promotes protein synthesis in cell culture models.
- Cell proliferation assays: Its extended half-life and reduced IGFBP binding make it a preferred tool over native IGF-1 in proliferation assays, where consistent receptor activation across multi-hour or multi-day timeframes is needed.
- Bone and cartilage research: Studies have examined IGF-1 LR3 in osteoblast and chondrocyte models, with observations on collagen synthesis, matrix production, and cell differentiation.
- Adipose tissue biology: Research has examined IGF-1 signaling in adipocyte differentiation models using LR3, with observations on lipogenesis and insulin receptor crosstalk.
- Cancer biology: IGF-1R overexpression is a studied phenomenon in multiple cancer cell lines; IGF-1 LR3 serves as a controlled stimulus in research examining receptor signaling, pathway crosstalk, and therapeutic target validation.
IGF-1 LR3 vs. PEG-MGF: Growth Factor Research Comparison
Both IGF-1 LR3 and PEG-MGF (PEGylated Mechano Growth Factor) are studied in muscle cell biology, but they operate through distinct mechanisms. IGF-1 LR3 activates the systemic IGF-1 receptor broadly across cell types. PEG-MGF is a splice variant of IGF-1 studied specifically in the context of local muscle repair signaling, acting earlier in the regeneration cascade. Researchers often study both in sequence to examine different phases of cellular repair biology.
Laboratory Handling
IGF-1 LR3 is sensitive to degradation and requires careful handling. Store lyophilized stock at -20°C or -80°C for extended stability. Reconstitute in 0.1% acetic acid (not bacteriostatic water) to maintain solubility. Reconstituted solution should be stored at 4°C and used within 7–14 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and protein-adsorbing plasticware; use low-binding tubes for storage and handling.
Source IGF-1 LR3 for your research → Iron Labs Research Catalog
Regulatory Notice
IGF-1 LR3 is not FDA-approved for human or veterinary use. Iron Labs sells IGF-1 LR3 exclusively as a research chemical for laboratory use. No health claims are made or implied.