Somatomedin C

Somatomedin C, also known as Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IGF1 gene. Somatomedin C plays a crucial role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. It is a hormone similar in molecular structure to insulin. It plays an important role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. IGF-1 is a primary mediator of the effects of growth hormone (GH). Growth hormone is made in the anterior pituitary gland, is released into the blood stream, and then stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1. IGF-1 then stimulates systemic body growth, and has growth-promoting effects on almost every cell in the body, especially skeletal muscle, cartilage, bone, liver, kidney, nerve, skin, hematopoietic, and lung cells.

Function

IGF-1 has many effects on the body. It stimulates the growth of bones and other tissues by promoting the formation and differentiation of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and chondrocytes (cells in cartilage). It also plays a role in muscle protein synthesis and organ growth. Its effects on the growth of muscle and the reduction of muscle wasting make it a subject of interest in the field of sports and bodybuilding, although its use is banned in competitive sports.

Production and Regulation

The production of IGF-1 is stimulated by growth hormone (GH). The GH binds to its receptor on liver cells, then triggers the production of IGF-1. The level of IGF-1 in the blood remains stable throughout the day, making it a better indicator of average GH levels than direct measurement of GH, which can fluctuate widely within minutes.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal levels of IGF-1 can indicate a GH disorder. High levels may indicate pituitary gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults, both of which are caused by an overproduction of growth hormone. Low levels of IGF-1 may indicate a GH deficiency, which can lead to growth failure in children and decreased muscle mass and quality of life in adults. IGF-1 also has potential therapeutic uses, such as in the treatment of growth failure and possibly in the future for certain conditions of muscle wasting.

Measurement

The measurement of IGF-1 levels in the blood is used to assess the function of the growth hormone/IGF axis. It is a useful tool in diagnosing growth hormone deficiency and in monitoring treatment with growth hormone.

Risks and Side Effects

The use of IGF-1 as a treatment carries risks. It can cause side effects such as hypoglycemia, jaw pain, edema, and increased risk of certain cancers. The potential for these risks makes the therapeutic use of IGF-1 a subject of careful consideration and monitoring.