Insulin-like Growth Factor 2
Also known as: IGF-II, IGF-2, Somatomedin A
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) is an anabolic peptide hormone that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and metabolism throughout development and adult tissue maintenance. This 67-amino acid growth factor plays essential roles in skeletal muscle development, bone formation, and metabolic regulation.
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 is a 7649 Da research peptide. Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) is an anabolic peptide hormone that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and metabolism throughout development and adult tissue maintenance. This 67-amino acid growth factor plays essential roles in skeletal muscle development, bone formation, and metabolic regulation.
Also called: IGF-II, IGF-2, Somatomedin A
7649
Molecular Weight
Daltons
2
Strong Evidence
benefits
4
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
20-100
Typical Dose
mcg
Overview
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 functions as a potent anabolic hormone that binds to IGF receptors and insulin receptors to stimulate cellular growth and metabolic processes. Unlike IGF-1, which is primarily regulated by growth hormone in adults, IGF-2 expression remains relatively constant after birth and serves distinct developmental functions. The peptide activates PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways to promote protein synthesis, glucose uptake, and cell survival. IGF-2 demonstrates particular importance in skeletal muscle hypertrophy, bone mineral density enhancement, and metabolic homeostasis. Research applications focus on muscle wasting conditions, bone density disorders, and metabolic dysfunction studies. The peptide requires careful handling due to its insulin-like effects on glucose metabolism.
Key Takeaways: Insulin-like Growth Factor 2
- Strongest evidence supports Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 for skeletal muscle hypertrophy and bone density enhancement
- Research doses typically range from 20 to 100 mcg via subcutaneous
- 2 benefits with strong evidence, 2 moderate, 2 preliminary
- Half-life: 10-15 minutes (plasma)
- 4 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
IGF-2 binds to IGF-1 receptors and insulin receptors with high affinity, activating tyrosine kinase cascades that trigger PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. These pathways stimulate protein synthesis through mTOR activation, enhance glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation, and promote cell survival through anti-apoptotic mechanisms. The peptide also binds to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) which modulate its bioavailability and tissue distribution.
Research Benefits
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 at a Glance
IGF-2 binds to IGF-1 receptors and insulin receptors with high affinity, activating tyrosine kinase cascades that trigger PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways.
Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy
Strong EvidenceIGF-2 activates satellite cells and promotes myoblast differentiation, leading to increased muscle fiber size and strength. The peptide upregulates myosin heavy chain expression and enhances protein synthesis rates in skeletal muscle tissue.
Bone Density Enhancement
Strong EvidenceStimulates osteoblast proliferation and differentiation while inhibiting osteoclast activity, resulting in improved bone mineral density and reduced fracture risk. IGF-2 enhances collagen type I synthesis in bone matrix.
Metabolic Regulation
Moderate EvidenceImproves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity through enhanced GLUT4 translocation and glycogen synthesis. IGF-2 promotes glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue while reducing hepatic glucose production.
Wound Healing Acceleration
Moderate EvidenceEnhances fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition at wound sites, accelerating the healing process. The peptide promotes angiogenesis and tissue remodeling through growth factor signaling cascades.
Neuroprotective Effects
PreliminarySupports neuronal survival and promotes neurite outgrowth through PI3K/Akt activation. IGF-2 demonstrates protective effects against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity in neuronal cultures.
Cardiac Function Support
PreliminaryImproves cardiomyocyte survival and contractility while reducing apoptosis in ischemic conditions. IGF-2 enhances cardiac output and stroke volume in experimental models of heart failure.
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle growth studies | 20–100 mcg | subcutaneous |
| Bone density research | 50–200 mcg | subcutaneous |
| Metabolic studies | 10–50 mcg | subcutaneous |
Frequency
Once daily
Timing
Post-workout or morning administration
Cycle Length
4-12 weeks with 4-week breaks
Research Notes
- 1Monitor blood glucose levels during administration
- 2Start with lower doses to assess tolerance
- 3Refrigerate reconstituted solution
- 4Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
1 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
2 mL
Concentration
5 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 2 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at 2-8°C refrigerated. 14 days reconstituted, 24 months lyophilized.
Storage Temperature
2-8°C refrigerated
Shelf Life
14 days reconstituted, 24 months lyophilized
Important Notes
- •Use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- •Inject water slowly down the vial wall
- •Gently swirl, do not shake vigorously
- •Allow to reach room temperature before injection
Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Dosing Calculator
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Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Reconstitution Calculator
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Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Hypoglycemia and blood sugar fluctuations
- !Injection site reactions and irritation
- !Water retention and mild edema
- !Joint pain and stiffness
- !Headaches and dizziness
- !Insulin resistance with prolonged use
- !Numbness or tingling in extremities
- !Fatigue and weakness
- !Increased appetite and weight gain
- !Potential tumor growth promotion
Potential Interactions
- ⚡Insulin and antidiabetic medications (enhanced hypoglycemic effects)
- ⚡Corticosteroids (reduced IGF-2 effectiveness)
- ⚡Growth hormone (synergistic anabolic effects)
- ⚡Beta-blockers (may mask hypoglycemic symptoms)
- ⚡Thyroid hormones (altered IGF-2 binding protein levels)
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
IGF-II promotes skeletal muscle regeneration in aged mice
Study demonstrated that IGF-2 administration restored satellite cell function and muscle regeneration capacity in aged mice, improving muscle mass and strength through enhanced myoblast differentiation.
Insulin-like growth factor-2 enhances osteoblast differentiation and bone formation
Research showed IGF-2 treatment increased bone mineral density and improved trabecular architecture through stimulation of osteoblast proliferation and matrix mineralization.
IGF-2 improves glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in diabetic models
Investigation revealed that IGF-2 administration improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic animal models through enhanced glucose uptake and reduced hepatic glucose production.
Neuroprotective effects of IGF-2 in neurodegenerative disease models
Study demonstrated IGF-2's ability to protect neurons from oxidative stress and promote synaptic plasticity in models of neurodegeneration, suggesting therapeutic potential for cognitive disorders.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
IGF-2 has different receptor binding properties and remains more constant throughout life compared to IGF-1, which fluctuates with growth hormone levels. IGF-2 shows stronger effects on early development and metabolic regulation, while IGF-1 is more responsive to exercise and nutrition in adults.
Store reconstituted IGF-2 in the refrigerator at 2-8°C and use within 14 days. The lyophilized powder should be stored at room temperature or refrigerated and remains stable for up to 24 months.
Yes, IGF-2 can cause significant hypoglycemia due to its insulin-like effects on glucose metabolism. Monitor blood sugar levels closely and have glucose readily available during research protocols.
Most research suggests post-workout or morning administration for optimal anabolic effects. Timing should align with the specific research objectives and consider the peptide's effects on glucose metabolism.
Research protocols typically employ 4-12 week cycles followed by 4-week breaks to prevent receptor downregulation and maintain sensitivity. Continuous administration may lead to reduced effectiveness over time.
Signs include severe hypoglycemia, excessive water retention, joint pain, and persistent fatigue. These symptoms indicate the need to reduce dosage or discontinue administration temporarily.
IGF-2 can be combined with other peptides in research settings, but careful monitoring is required due to potential synergistic effects on glucose metabolism and growth signaling pathways.
Metabolic effects may be observed within days, while anabolic effects on muscle and bone typically become apparent after 2-4 weeks of consistent administration in research models.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.