An Introduction to IGF-1 in Aging

Of the many proteins and signaling pathways shown to influence the pace of aging, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is perhaps the most studied: The really fun thing about discussing signaling networks (the inputs that let cells make decisions based on their environment) in aging is the wide range of ways that these pathways exert their influence. They take inputs (nutrition, hormones, toxic molecules) and use their existing programming (epigenetic state) to make decisions. Components that control one process, such as regulating body size, can play roles in completely different processes. Today, I'll discuss an example involving insulin-like growth factor 1 or IGF1, a close relative of insulin (a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels). While IGF1 was initially discovered due to its effect on blood glucose, it has since turned out to exert profound effects on a wide variety of processes that also include body size, longevity and cancer. People who have too little IGF1 signaling may develop dwarfism (such as Laron syndrome), while too much IGF1 can lead to various forms of gigantism and increased risk of age-related diseases. IGF1 is an important molecule in development, as demonstrated by its key role in size determination; however IGF1 does much more than just determine how large an animal or human will be. IGF1 signaling has cropped up as a central player in fundamental studies on the genetic basis of aging. Using the small roundworm, Caenorhabditis elegans, scien...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs