What is MGF?
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) is a splice variant of IGF-1 produced in response to mechanical stress, particularly in muscle tissue. Also known as IGF-1Ec, MGF is created when muscle is damaged or stressed, initiating the repair and growth process.
MGF represents the body's initial response to muscle damage, activating satellite cells to begin the repair process.
Biology
Production
- Generated from IGF-1 gene splicing
- Produced in response to:
- Mechanical stress
- Muscle damage
- Exercise
- Local, autocrine/paracrine action
- Short-lived signal
Role in Muscle
- Mechanical stress occurs
- MGF is spliced and released
- Activates satellite cells
- Initiates repair process
- Followed by IGF-1Ea for growth
Molecular Profile
Structure
E-domain extension from IGF-1:
- IGF-1 base structure
- Unique C-terminal E-peptide
- The E-domain is the active portion
Research Applications
Muscle Research
- Muscle repair mechanisms
- Satellite cell activation
- Hypertrophy research
- Recovery studies
Comparison with IGF-1
| Aspect | MGF | IGF-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Initial response | Later phase |
| Effect | Satellite activation | Growth promotion |
| Duration | Short-lived | More sustained |
| Action | Local | Local + systemic |
Summary
MGF represents the initial phase of muscle repair signaling, activating the regenerative process following mechanical stress.
Key Points:
- Classification: IGF-1 splice variant
- Function: Satellite cell activation
- Timing: Initial damage response
- Status: Research compound