THE ROLE OF INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR I IN THE REGULATION OF GROWTH

Abstract

Somatomedin-C (Sm-C), also called insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I), is a peptide containing 70 amino acids. It is a broad-spectrum growth factor that stimulates DNA synthesis in many cell types. Its plasma concentration is dependent on growth hormone, and nutritional status is an important regulating mechanism, Prolactin, thyroxine and estrogen also influence Sm-C/IGF-I secretion. Recent data suggest that synthesis of Sm-C/IGF-I occurs within cells and is independent of blood Sm-C/IGF-I. The role of this peptide in the regulation of growth is discussed.