Mechano Growth Factor (MGF)
preclinicalAlso known as: IGF-1Ec, MGF peptide
Mechano Growth Factor (MGF), also known as IGF-1Ec, is a splice variant of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) that is upregulated in response to mechanical stress or muscle damage. Its mechanism of action involves binding to the IGF-1 receptor, which activates downstream signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, leading to enhanced proliferation and activation of muscle satellite cells. This process promotes localized tissue repair and compensatory hypertrophy, distinguishing MGF from systemic IGF-1 isoforms by its rapid, transient expression and autocrine/paracrine effects. Preclinical research, primarily in rodent models, demonstrates that MGF administration or overexpression increases muscle fiber cross-sectional area, accelerates regeneration after injury, and attenuates age-related sarcopenia. Studies also indicate that MGF may exert neuroprotective effects in models of neurodegeneration, though these findings remain preliminary. Notably, MGF’s activity is context-dependent, with its efficacy influenced by the timing of expression relative to mechanical loading or injury. Clinically, MGF has not advanced beyond preclinical investigation, and no human trials have been conducted to date. Its potential applications in muscle wasting disorders, sports injury recovery, and sarcopenia remain speculative. Due to the lack of safety and efficacy data in humans, MGF is not approved for therapeutic use. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
Research & studies
MGF promotes PDLSC proliferation and fibrogenic differentiation by inducing Fyn-YAP Y357 phosphorylation.; Fyn activates YAP indirectly through RhoA in response to MGF stimulation.; The Fyn-RhoA-p-YAP Y357 pathway is significant for MGF-mediated PDLSC proliferation and differentiation.
MGF produced under occlusion force strongly enhances PDL remodeling in vivo.; MGF promotes PDLSC differentiation toward fibroblasts, confirmed by in vitro experiments and mathematical modeling.; The mechanochemical coupling effect is modulated by Fyn-FAK kinases signaling and subsequent MAPK pathway, including ERK1/2 and p38 phosphorylation.; MGF-centered adjuvant treatment could optimize PDL remodeling, especially for patients with weakened bite force or destroyed periodontium.
MGF is highly expressed in chondrocytes of damaged cartilage from trauma or osteoarthritis.; MGF regulates chondrocyte behaviors including proliferation, migration, differentiation, inflammation, and apoptosis.; MGF senses mechanical stimuli and helps maintain cartilage homeostasis under normal joint conditions.; The role of MGF in cartilage development and disease is still controversial and its mechanisms are elusive.
At 4.5 mg/kg/day, the S/E and S/A peptides produced opposing effects on cardiac systolic and diastolic function, with no significant change in cardiac geometry.; Microarray analysis identified 21 genes differentially expressed in line with the opposing contractile effects, including Nr4a2, and E-domain peptides modulated Nr4a gene expression after KCl depolarization in vitro.; The S/A peptide destabilized 14-3-3 protein folding and inhibited its interaction with MYPC3 and PLN, while the S/E peptide only inhibited MYPC3 interaction; pSer18 increased 14-3-3 stability.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mechano Growth Factor (MGF)?
Mechano Growth Factor (MGF), also known as IGF-1Ec, is a splice variant of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) that is upregulated in response to mechanical stress or muscle damage. Its mechanism of action involves binding to the IGF-1 receptor, which activates downstream signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, leading t
How does Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) work?
Mechanically activated IGF-1 splice variant that activates muscle satellite cells for repair and hypertrophy.
What is the research status of Mechano Growth Factor (MGF)?
Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) is currently classified as preclinical, with 194 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
Related peptides
Truncated IGF-1 variant with high local potency and short half-life, studied for site-specific muscle growth.
Activin-binding glycoprotein that antagonizes myostatin (GDF-8) to release the brake on skeletal muscle growth.
Long-acting IGF-1 analog with reduced IGFBP binding, prolonging activation of the IGF-1 receptor to drive muscle hypertrophy.
Soluble ActRIIB-Fc decoy receptor that sequesters myostatin and related ligands; trialed in muscular dystrophy before discontinuation.
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