Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) is best known for supporting blood vessels, cell growth and repair. In the heart, it helps maintain the survival of cardiac muscle cells (cardiomyocytes), prevents cell death, and encourages tissue regeneration. Research shows that IGF-1 activates protective signaling pathways in heart cells, helping them resist stress, oxidative damage, and ageing-related decline.1
Importantly, IGF-1 is involved in maintaining blood vessel health. It stimulates nitric oxide (NO) production in endothelial cells, which leads to vasodilation the widening of blood vessels and improved blood flow.2,3 This process is essential for keeping both the heart and brain properly nourished and oxygenated.
Low levels of IGF-1 have been consistently linked with higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and metabolic syndrome. Studies show that people with reduced IGF-1 activity have greater arterial stiffness, impaired endothelial function, and increased inflammation all of which contribute to cardiovascular risk 2. As the key regular of IGF-1 activity, cGP is just as important. IGF-1 also plays a role in preventing atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque inside artery walls. It protects against damage by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and supporting the function and repair of blood vessels.2 In short, IGF-1 is not just a growth factor. It is a guardian of vascular integrity, working at multiple levels to protect the heart and blood vessels from age-related decline.
Although IGF-1 is so crucial, its activity decreases significantly as we get older. The body's ability to keep IGF-1 biologically active is hindered by proteins called IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs), especially IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-4. These proteins latch onto IGF-1 and reduce its bioavailability.4 This is where cGP plays a critical role.
cGP is a small peptide molecule naturally produced in the body and derived from IGF-1 itself. It works by modulating the balance between IGF-1 and its binding proteins. In simple terms, cGP helps free up IGF-1 from the proteins that would otherwise trap it. This restores IGF-1's activity and allows it to reach its targets, such as heart muscle and blood vessel cells. 1,2 As a result, cGP helps maintain vascular flexibility, supports nitric oxide production, and promotes blood vessel repair and regeneration all crucial for heart health.
Multiple studies have found that higher IGF-1 levels are associated with reduced arterial thickening, better endothelial function, and lower risk of ischemic heart disease.1 IGF-1 even helps protect the heart during events like heart attacks by reducing tissue damage and supporting recovery.1 In heart failure and other chronic cardiac conditions, IGF-1's anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects are vital. However, without adequate cGP, the body may not be able to use IGF-1 effectively, especially in older adults or those with metabolic disorders.
By restoring IGF-1 function, cGP offers a promising new approach to cardiovascular health. Rather than supplying more IGF-1, cGP works with the body’s existing system, improving what is already there.
This makes cGP a smart and safe way to:
Because the brain is so dependent on cardiovascular health,supporting IGF-1 function with cGP offers dual benefits protecting both the heart and the brain.5 It is a powerful strategy for ageing well, supporting cognitive clarity, and reducing the risk of heart-related cognitive decline.
In summary, IGF-1 is essential for keeping your cardiovascular system youthful and strong, but without sufficient cGP, your body cannot use your IGF-1. IGF-1 itself is not suitable as a therapeutic option because it is rapidly broken down in the body and therefore is ineffective when taken orally.
Topping up your natural, internal cGP levels with supplementation offers an excellent way to restore cGP the balance, unlocking IGF-1’s full potential to protect your heart, your brain, and your future.
1. Adasheva, D. A. & Serebryanaya, D. V. IGF Signaling in the Heart in Health and Disease. Biochemistry (Moscow) vol. 89 1402–1428 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1134/S0006297924080042 (2024).
2. Conti, E. et al. Insulin-like growth factor-1 as a vascular protective factor. Circulation vol. 110 2260–2265 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1161/01.CIR.0000144309.87183.FB (2004).
3. Oltman, C. L., Kane, N. L., Gutterman, D. D., Bar, R. S. & Dellsperger, K. C. Mechanism of coronary vasodilation to insulin and insulin-like growth factor I is dependent on vessel size. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism 279, E176–E181 (2000).
4. Guan, J. et al. Cyclic glycine-proline regulates IGF-1 homeostasis by altering the binding of IGFBP-3 to IGF-1. Sci Rep 4, (2014).
5.Wrigley, S., Arafa, D. & Tropea, D. Insulin-like growth factor 1: At the crossroads of brain development and aging. Front Cell Neurosci 11, (2017).