IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1) is a protein that plays a key role in growth and development, particularly in children. It is produced primarily by the liver in response to growth hormone (GH) released by the pituitary gland. IGF-1 is involved in stimulating the growth of bones, muscles, and tissues, and it helps regulate cell growth and repair.
The IGF-1 test is often used to:
IGF-1 levels are typically stable throughout the day and are more reflective of long-term growth hormone activity compared to direct measurement of growth hormone.