Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 67 amino acids · IGF / Insulinanalog
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid (shown truncated).
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- IGF-1 DES is a truncated variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 lacking the first three N-terminal amino acids (DES(1-3)IGF-1).
- This truncation makes the molecule bind much more weakly to IGF binding proteins, allowing higher relative activity at the IGF-1 receptor in tissue.
- In cell models an increased potency relative to full-length IGF-1 has been described.
- The action concerns cell proliferation, differentiation and anabolic signalling.
Research status
- IGF-1 DES has been characterised mainly in cell and animal models.
- Basic research describes the truncated form as a highly potent IGF variant with reduced binding-protein affinity.
- Controlled human studies on exogenous use are lacking.
- The safety and efficacy profile in humans is not established.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01No controlled human studies — safety profile not established
- 02Hypoglycaemia risk via IGF/insulin signalling
- 03Theoretical risk of promoting growth of pre-existing tumours
- 04Tissue overgrowth/organ changes conceivable with overdose
- 05WADA ban, ADBG/DmMV relevance
Frequently asked questions
What is IGF-1 DES?
IGF-1 DES is a truncated variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 lacking the first three N-terminal amino acids (DES(1-3)IGF-1).
What type of peptide is IGF-1 DES?
IGF-1 DES belongs to the IGF / insulin analog class.
Is IGF-1 DES legal in Germany?
IGF-1 DES is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic. It is additionally relevant under the German Doping Agent Quantity Ordinance (DmMV).
Where can I buy IGF-1 DES?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. IGF-1 DES is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is IGF-1 DES banned in sport (WADA)?
Yes. IGF-1 DES is on the WADA Prohibited List and is therefore banned in competitive sport.
What are the known risks of IGF-1 DES?
Documented risks include: No controlled human studies — safety profile not established; Hypoglycaemia risk via IGF/insulin signalling. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is IGF-1 DES?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 2 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of IGF-1 DES?
IGF-1 DES has a molar mass of about 7371.8 Da, with a plasma half-life of very short (minutes).
Which peptides are related to IGF-1 DES?
Closely related entries: IGF-1, IGF-1 LR3. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 2 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature.
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 30 May 2026
Legal assessment
IGF-1 DES is not approved as a medicine. As an IGF-1 variant it falls under the WADA Prohibited List (S2) and is doping-relevant (ADBG/DmMV). Obtaining it as a research chemical is illegal and carries considerable safety risks.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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