Description:
IGF-1, also known as somatomedin-C, is a polypeptide hormone produced by the liver and other tissues in response to growth hormone release by the pituitary gland. IGF-1 effects growth promoting activity and glucose metabolism (insulin-like activity) in most human tissues. It is carried in blood bound to a carrier protein which prolongs its half-life; therefore making serum levels more constant than growth hormone while correlating with "average" circulating levels of growth hormone. In short, IGF-1 is a surrogate marker of growth hormone levels and activity.
Measuring IGF-I is useful in several growth-related disorders. Dwarfism caused by deficiency of growth hormone (hypopituitarism) results in decreased serum levels of IGF-I, while acromegaly (growth hormone excess) results in elevated levels of IGF-I. IGF-I measurements are also helpful in assessing nutritional status; levels are reduced in undernutrition and restored with a proper diet.
A significant deviation from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.

Alternative Name(s):
Somatomedin-C, Insulin-Like Growth Factor, IGF-1, SM-C/IGF-1

Includes:
Insulin-Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I).

Categories: Fitness, Nutrition and Anti-Aging, Hormones and Metabolism

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