1. What is Follistatin?
Follistatin is a naturally occurring glycoprotein encoded by the FST gene, recognized for its ability to bind and neutralize members of the TGF-β superfamily, particularly myostatin (GDF-8). By regulating these pathways, Follistatin has become a key subject of research in muscle biology, fibrosis control, reproductive endocrinology, and regenerative medicine.
2. Follistatin Structure
Molecular Formula：C₂₀₃H₃₁₇N₅₅O₆₄S
Molecular Weight：38kDa
CAS Number：100043-71-8
3. Follistatin Research
Mechanism of Interest
l Myostatin Inhibition: Follistatin binds to and inactivates myostatin, a well-known negative regulator of muscle growth【1】.
l Activin Pathway Suppression: By modulating activin A, Follistatin influences processes such as inflammation, fibrosis, and hormonal regulation.
l Isoforms: Alternative splicing generates forms such as FS-288 and FS-315, with differing tissue distribution and binding properties.
Experimental Outcomes
l Muscle Research: In preclinical studies, overexpression of Follistatin or FST gene delivery has been associated with increased muscle mass and strength.
l Fibrosis Models: Research indicates Follistatin can reduce markers of fibrosis by interfering with TGF-β/Smad3 signaling【2】.
l Endocrine Studies: Shown to influence FSH secretion and gonadal function in experimental systems.
Therapeutic Exploration
l Investigated in preclinical models of muscular dystrophy and sarcopenia.
l Studied in relation to cachexia and muscle atrophy prevention.
l Early investigations into topical use for hair and skin cell models.
Expert Commentary
A review in Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism (2021) described Follistatin as “a multifaceted protein with translational potential in muscle, reproductive, and fibrotic research fields.”
✅ Why Consider Follistatin (Research Context)?
l 🧬 Studied for its inhibition of myostatin and activin pathways
l 💪 Associated with muscle hypertrophy and regeneration research
l 🛡️ Investigated in fibrosis and tissue repair models
l ⚙️ Explored for roles in reproductive and endocrine studies
l 🔄 Considered in regenerative and longevity research contexts
4. Future Follistatin Research
A. Regenerative Medicine & Tissue Engineering
l Use in scaffolds and organoid systems.
l Supporting mesenchymal stem cell differentiation in muscle and cartilage models.
B. Neuroprotective Applications
l Modulation of activin signaling explored in stroke, spinal cord, and neurodegeneration models.
C. Cachexia & Aging
l Research into muscle wasting in cancer cachexia and age-related sarcopenia.
D. Gene Editing & Delivery
l Experimental strategies using AAV vectors, CRISPR-Cas9, and nanoparticles to modulate Follistatin expression.
E. Synergy with Other Peptides
l Potential studied combinations with IGF-1, GH secretagogues, and regenerative peptides.
5.Application Area
Follistatin is studied in:
l 🧪 Muscle biology & hypertrophy models (atrophy, sarcopenia, cachexia)
l 🧬 Fibrosis research (liver, lung, and muscle tissue)
l ⚙️ Endocrinology (FSH regulation, reproductive pathways)
l 💇 Hair & skin cell studies (dermal papilla and wound healing models)
⚠ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
