IGF-1 LR3
Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1
IGF-1 LR3 Research Protocol
Quickstart Overview
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 IGF-1) is a modified insulin-like growth factor-1 with an arginine substitution at position 3 and a 13-residue N-terminal extension. These changes reduce binding to IGF-binding proteins, giving a much longer half-life and potent anabolic signalling.
Scientific Data
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Units assume a U-100 insulin syringe (100 units = 1 mL). Keep fast carbs on hand — IGF-1 analogs can cause hypoglycaemia.
Reconstitution Steps
- 1Allow the lyophilized vial and bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature (~15 min).
- 2Swab both vial stoppers with a fresh 70% isopropyl alcohol pad and let them dry.
- 3Draw 1.0 mL of bacteriostatic water into a mixing syringe.
- 4Insert at an angle and let the water run slowly down the glass wall — never directly onto the powder.
- 5Gently swirl (do not shake) until the solution is completely clear.
- 6Label with date and concentration (mg/mL) and refrigerate at 2–8 °C immediately.
Supplies Needed
Planning example for a 4-week protocol at approximately 40 mcg per day.
Protocol Overview
Dosing Protocol
Storage Instructions
Important Notes
- Hypoglycaemia is the acute safety concern.
- Cycle to preserve receptor sensitivity.
- Theoretical neoplasia concern with any growth factor.
How This Works
IGF-1 LR3 binds the IGF-1 receptor to activate the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways that drive protein synthesis, cell proliferation and hyperplasia. Because the R3 modification lowers affinity for IGF-binding proteins, far more free peptide is available and its half-life extends to ~20–30 hours (versus minutes for native IGF-1), producing sustained anabolic activity. It also promotes nutrient uptake and glucose metabolism.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
- Potent, sustained anabolic signalling (PI3K/Akt)
- Muscle-cell hyperplasia and protein synthesis in models
- Long half-life vs native IGF-1
- Enhanced nutrient partitioning and glucose uptake
- Hypoglycaemia risk (keep fast-acting carbs available)
- Potential for growth of all tissues — theoretical neoplasia concern
- Injection-site reactions
- Organ growth at high chronic doses (animal data)
Lifestyle Factors
- Adequate hydration and 7–9 h of sleep are standard controls in most research protocols.
- Consistent dose timing improves the reliability of any self-tracked endpoints.
- Maintain a clean, sterile workflow for every draw to avoid contamination.
Injection Technique
- 1Wash hands, then prep the vial top and the target site with separate alcohol swabs.
- 2Pinch a subcutaneous skin fold (abdomen, ~2 inches from the navel) and insert at 45–90°.
- 3Depress the plunger slowly over 3–5 seconds, hold 5 seconds, then withdraw.
- 4Rotate sites each administration and dispose of the syringe in a sharps container.
Frequently Asked Questions
CG Labz Verified Batches
No published batches yet.
Research Disclaimer
All compounds are supplied strictly for laboratory research. Dosing figures below summarize ranges reported in published preclinical and clinical literature for reference purposes only. CG Labz does not provide medical advice or individualized dosing recommendations.
References
- [1] Journal of EndocrinologyTomas F.M. et al. Long-R3-IGF-1 and protein metabolism.View Source