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Research-grade compound with certificate of analysis. Full analytical testing on every lot.
MGF (IGF-1 Ec) is a specialized form of IGF-1 released after exercise or muscle strain to jump-start the body’s repair process.
It helps activate muscle stem cells, supports recovery, and promotes healthy tissue rebuilding. Research also shows MGF may aid nerve protection and balanced immune responses, making it a key peptide for repair and resilience.
Mechano-growth factor (MGF), also known as IGF-1 Ec, MGF-E, and MGF Ec, is a 24-amino acid splice variant of the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) gene that is uniquely expressed in response to mechanical loading, tissue strain, and muscular microdamage [1].
While classical IGF-1 isoforms (such as IGF-1 Ea, the most ubiquitous form) participate in endocrine and paracrine signaling related to growth, metabolism, and recovery, MGF represents a specialized version with distinct biological roles.
The key difference lies in its E-domain sequence, which alters receptor binding dynamics and shifts its function toward local tissue repair rather than systemic growth signaling.
Native IGF-1 promotes pathways like PI3K/Akt and mTOR, while MGF is believed to stimulate satellite cell activation, promoting local cellular proliferation and preparing damaged fibers for subsequent IGF-1–mediated differentiation [2].
Because of its rapid, short-lived expression following mechanical stress, endogenous MGF acts as the body’s immediate “alert” peptide for muscle and connective-tissue adaptation.
MGF (IGF-1 Ec) is most recognized for its involvement in the early stages of muscle repair, where it acts as a rapid-response signal following mechanical strain or localized microdamage.
Unlike systemic IGF-1 isoforms that are involved in sustained anabolic activity, MGF initiates the activation and proliferation of satellite cells, the stem-like cells responsible for muscle regeneration.
An in vitro study used primary human muscle cell cultures from donors of different ages (neonatal, young adult, old adult) to investigate the effects of MGF (IGF-1 Ec) on muscle regeneration pathways [3].
MGF (IGF-1 Ec) administration resulted in:
The peptide substantially enhanced satellite cell activation, proliferation, and fusion, supporting improved muscle repair and maintenance.
Because its effects are strongest in neonatal and young adult muscle, MGF (IGF-1 Ec) may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing age-related sarcopenia.
Beyond its well-established role in muscular adaptation, MGF (IGF-1 Ec) has been investigated for its influence on neural resilience and regenerative signaling within the central and peripheral nervous systems.
A preclinical in vivo/in vitro model of neuronal ischemia evaluated neuroprotective mechanisms of MGF (IGF-1 Ec) [4]. Results showed:
The MGF (IGF-1 Ec) peptide demonstrates potent, sustained neuroprotective effects in both in vivo and in vitro ischemia models. Its ability to act independently of the IGF-1 receptor makes this peptide a promising therapeutic candidate for stroke recovery.
MGF (IGF-1 Ec) also plays a meaningful role in coordinating immune activity, especially in environments where mechanical stress or localized injury triggers an inflammatory response.
Because MGF is rapidly upregulated in damaged tissue, it acts as an early signaling cue that helps transition the microenvironment from acute inflammation toward controlled regeneration.
An animal study investigated whether exogenous MGF can rescue impaired muscle regeneration in a mouse model of skeletal muscle contusion combined with macrophage depletion [5].
Mice underwent muscle contusion injury followed by macrophage depletion to model impaired regenerative conditions. After the injection of injured muscles with synthetic MGF (IGF-1 Ec), results showed:
Although MGF did not directly enhance muscle fiber regeneration lost due to macrophage depletion, it improved the detrimental effects of macrophage loss by modulating inflammation.
1 Schlegel, W., Raimann, A., Halbauer, D., Scharmer, D., Sagmeister, S., Wessner, B., et al. (2013) Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) Ec/Mechano Growth factor--a splice variant of IGF-1 within the growth plate. PLoS One, Public Library of Science (PLoS) 8, e76133
2 Dai, Z., Wu, F., Yeung, E. W. and Li, Y. (2010) IGF-IEc expression, regulation and biological function in different tissues. Growth Horm. IGF Res., Elsevier BV 20, 275–281
3 Kandalla, P. K., Goldspink, G., Butler-Browne, G. and Mouly, V. (2011) Mechano Growth Factor E peptide (MGF-E), derived from an isoform of IGF-1, activates human muscle progenitor cells and induces an increase in their fusion potential at different ages. Mech. Ageing Dev. 132, 154–162
4 Dluzniewska, J., Sarnowska, A., Beresewicz, M., Johnson, I., Srai, S. K. S., Ramesh, B., et al. (2005) A strong neuroprotective effect of the autonomous C-terminal peptide of IGF-1 Ec (MGF) in brain ischemia. FASEB J., Wiley 19, 1896–1898
5 Liu, X., Zeng, Z., Zhao, L., Chen, P. and Xiao, W. (2019) Impaired skeletal muscle regeneration induced by macrophage depletion could be partly ameliorated by MGF injection. Front. Physiol., Frontiers Media SA 10, 601
Every lot undergoes five independent assays before release. Results are published in the lot-specific Certificate of Analysis.
Every lot undergoes our 4-panel testing protocol: HPLC purity analysis, ESI-MS identity confirmation, LAL endotoxin screening, and amino acid analysis (for peptides >15 residues). Full analytical data is published in the Certificate of Analysis for each lot.
Lyophilized peptides should be stored at -20°C or below for long-term stability. Once reconstituted, peptides should be stored at 2–8°C and used within a reasonable timeframe depending on the specific compound. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Always store in a dry environment away from direct light.
Orders placed before noon PST, Monday–Saturday, ship the same day. We offer free standard shipping on orders over $150. All orders are shipped in insulated packaging with ice packs when necessary. Standard delivery typically takes 2–4 business days within the continental US.
No. All compounds sold by Genesis Peptides are strictly for in vitro and preclinical laboratory research purposes only. They are not approved for human consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic purposes. By purchasing, you confirm the products will be used solely for legitimate research applications.
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document issued by our analytical laboratory that reports the results of all quality control tests performed on a specific lot of product. Each COA includes HPLC chromatograms, mass spectra, endotoxin results, and amino acid analysis where applicable. COAs are available in our COA Library for every lot we have shipped.
Yes. We offer volume pricing for universities, research institutions, and laboratories with recurring needs. Discounts begin at 10+ units and scale with volume. Contact our team for a custom quote tailored to your research requirements.
Research Use Only. All findings described above are derived from preclinical studies (animal models and in vitro experiments). MGF IGF-Ec is not approved by the FDA for any diagnostic or therapeutic use in humans. Genesis Peptides makes no claims regarding human clinical efficacy. This product is sold exclusively for laboratory research.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY — Products are sold exclusively for in vitro and preclinical laboratory research. Not for human consumption or administration. Not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic use. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
