1. What is IGF-1 LR3?
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a synthetic analog of human insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), engineered for greater stability and bioavailability. It differs from native IGF-1 by containing a 13–amino-acid N-terminal extension and a substitution of arginine for glutamic acid at position 3. These modifications reduce binding to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs), prolonging its half-life and enhancing biological potency.
IGF-1 LR3 is widely studied in the fields of musculoskeletal regeneration, tissue repair, neuroprotection, and metabolic regulation.
2. IGF-1 LR3 Structure

Sequence: MFPAMPLSSL FVNGPRTLCG AELVDALQFV CGDRGFYFNK PTGYGSSSRR APQTGIVDEC CFRSCDLRRL EMYCAPLKPA KSA
Molecular Formula: C₄₀₀H₆₂₅N₁₁₁O₁₁₅S₉
Molecular Weight: 9117.5 g/mol
CAS Number: 946870-92-4
3. IGF-1 LR3 Research
⚙️ Mechanism of Action
l IGF-1 Receptor Binding: Activates IGF-1R, promoting anabolic pathways such as protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and tissue repair.
l Apoptosis Inhibition: Demonstrated ability to protect against catabolic signaling and enhance cell survival in muscle and neural models 【1】.
l IGFBP Resistance: Reduced affinity for IGF-binding proteins allows for higher free IGF-1 activity and prolonged biological effects.
Research Highlights
l Native IGF-1 half-life: ~12–18 hours; IGF-1 LR3: ~20–30 hours.
l Enhances muscle fiber hypertrophy via satellite cell activation.
l Supports tendon, ligament, and skin regeneration in injury and surgical models.
l Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal in skeletal muscle.
l Neuroprotective effects observed in studies of stroke, ALS, and cognitive decline.
Expert Commentary
l Journal of Molecular Endocrinology (2020): “IGF-1 LR3’s reduced binding to IGFBPs provides a unique advantage for sustained anabolic signaling.”
l Dr. Mauro Di Pasquale: “IGF-1 LR3 represents one of the most potent regenerative peptides, especially when applied around periods of tissue demand.”
✅ Why Consider IGF-1 LR3?
💥 Up to 10× activity compared to native IGF-1 due to IGFBP resistance
💪 Promotes muscle hypertrophy, stem cell activation, and collagen synthesis
🧠 Supports neuroplasticity, cognitive resilience, and nerve regeneration
🛠️ Valuable in models of tendon, ligament, and skin repair
🔄 Improves glucose utilization and metabolic efficiency
⏳ Longer half-life → sustained effects with fewer administrations
4. Future IGF-1 LR3 Research
· A. Musculoskeletal Regeneration
Studied for applications in rotator cuff repair, ACL reconstruction, tendinopathy, and orthopedic recovery 【2】.
· B. Cognitive & Neurodegenerative Research
Trials exploring benefits in Alzheimer’s disease, post-stroke recovery, and motor neuron injury.
· C. Anti-Aging & Longevity
Integrated into regenerative protocols addressing muscle decline, skin aging, and cognitive function.
· D. Oncology & Safety Profiling
Ongoing studies assessing the balance between regeneration benefits and proliferative risks, given IGF-1’s role in cell growth.
· E. Combination Strategies
Investigated in synergy with:
CJC-1295 + GHRP-2 / Hexarelin → enhancing endogenous IGF-1
BPC-157 or TB-500 → tissue repair
GHK-Cu → collagen and skin regeneration
5.Application Area
💪 Muscle Growth & Repair
Models of hypertrophy, tendon/ligament healing, and post-operative recovery.
🧠 Neuroregeneration
Stroke rehabilitation, peripheral nerve regeneration, and cognitive performance studies.
🧪 Skin & Wound Healing
Collagen density, epithelial repair, and anti-aging dermatology 【3】.
⚖️ Metabolic Optimization
Improved glucose uptake and fat metabolism in conjunction with GH pathways.
✅ Summary
IGF-1 LR3 is a next-generation peptide analog offering:
✔️ Enhanced stability and activity compared to native IGF-1
✔️ Applications in muscle, tendon, skin, and neuroprotection research
✔️ Long half-life for consistent biological effects
✔️ Synergistic use with GH secretagogues and regenerative peptides
✔️ Strong potential in longevity and metabolic optimization studies
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.