MGF
Mechano Growth Factor (IGF-1Ec E-peptide)
Also known as: IGF-1Ec, MGF E-peptide
A 24 amino acid fragment of a load-induced IGF-1 splice variant, sold for local muscle repair; in-vitro and animal data only, with at least one failed replication and a half-life of minutes.
Overview
MGF is the E-domain peptide of IGF-1Ec, produced in muscle after mechanical stress. It is proposed to expand satellite cells before mature IGF-1 drives their differentiation. Studies in human muscle progenitor cells and pig satellite cells support proliferation, but an independent lab found no effect on primary human myoblasts, and no human trial exists. The native peptide is cleared within minutes, which is why a PEGylated version (PEG-MGF) is also sold.
Mechanism of action
Proposed activation of muscle satellite cell proliferation through a receptor distinct from IGF-1R.
Key studies & citations
- In vitro2011
MGF E-peptide activates human muscle progenitor cells
Increased proliferation in cultured human cells.
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development - In vitro2012
MGF E-peptide effects on porcine satellite cells
Proliferation in pig cells.
Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry - Review2010
Mechano-growth factor: the E-peptide controversy (review)
Independent groups dispute the E-peptide's biological activity.
Endocrinology
Frequently asked questions
Does injecting MGF into a muscle grow that muscle?
No human study has tested it. The native peptide is cleared in minutes, and the cell-culture data are contested.