IGF-1 LR3
Long R3 IGF-1 · LR3-IGF-1
Popular for:Muscle protein synthesis, extended half-life IGF-1, anabolic
10
Total Studies
2
Human Studies
Animal
Evidence Level
Not Approved
FDA Status
Overview
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified version of IGF-1 with an extended half-life of approximately 20-30 hours compared to minutes for native IGF-1. The modifications include an arginine substitution at position 3 and a 13-amino acid extension at the N-terminus, which reduce binding to IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs).
IGF-1 is a critical mediator of growth hormone's anabolic effects. While GH triggers IGF-1 production in the liver, IGF-1 LR3 provides direct IGF-1 receptor activation with enhanced potency and duration. It is one of the most potent anabolic research compounds available.
Mechanism of Action
IGF-1 LR3 binds to IGF-1 receptors throughout the body, activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway which promotes protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and anti-apoptotic signaling. Its reduced affinity for IGFBPs means more free IGF-1 LR3 is available to activate receptors compared to native IGF-1. This results in enhanced muscle protein synthesis, satellite cell activation, and nutrient partitioning.
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
10
Total Studies
2
Human Studies
Not FDA-approved. Research compound. Related to FDA-approved mecasermin (Increlex) which is recombinant IGF-1 for growth failure. WADA prohibited substance. High regulatory scrutiny.
Key Studies / PubMed References
IGF-1 LR3 does not promote growth in late-gestation growth-restricted fetal sheep.
ReviewWhite A, Stremming J, Wesolowski SR, et al. · American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism · 2025
PMID: 39679943Revolutionary decellularized Alstroemeria stem-based nerve conduit integrated with GelMA and controlled IGF-1 LR3 release for enhanced rat sciatic nerve regeneration.
Animal StudyYavuz E, Sağır MS, Ercan A, et al. · International journal of biological macromolecules · 2025
PMID: 41015370Intranasal long R3 insulin-like growth factor-1 treatment promotes amyloid plaque remodeling in cerebral cortex but fails to preserve cognitive function in male 5XFAD mice.
In VitroEngel MG, Narayan S, Cui MH, et al. · Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD · 2025
PMID: 39610283Attenuated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion during an acute IGF-1 LR3 infusion into fetal sheep does not persist in isolated islets.
ReviewWhite A, Stremming J, Brown LD, et al. · Journal of developmental origins of health and disease · 2023
PMID: 37114757Recombinant expression of IGF-1 and LR3 IGF-1 fused with xylanase in Pichia pastoris.
ReviewLu Z, Liu N, Huang H, et al. · Applied microbiology and biotechnology · 2023
PMID: 37261455Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for IGF-1 LR3 yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. IGF-1 LR3 is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.