MGF
Mechano-growth factor, an IGF-1 splice variant peptide that promotes muscle and tissue repair in response to mechanical load.
MGF was identified as a locally produced growth factor splice variant that responds to mechanical stimulation in muscle tissue. In vitro studies demonstrate that synthetic MGF-C25E promotes tenocyte invasion via MMP-2 activity through the FAK-ERK1/2 pathway, and enhances periodontal ligament remodeling through Fyn-FAK kinases and MAPK signaling. Evidence is primarily preclinical, with no human clinical trials establishing efficacy or safety. The extremely short half-life of native MGF (minutes) limits practical therapeutic utility, leading to development of PEGylated variants. Research is limited to cell culture and animal models, with no established dosing protocols in humans.