IGFBP - 3

General information:

Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, also known as IGFBP-3, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IGFBP3 gene. IGFBP-3 is one of six IGF binding proteins (IGFBP-1 to IGFBP-6) that have highly conserved structures and bind the insulin-like growth factors IGF-1 and IGF-2 with high affinity. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) is the main carrier of somatomedin C (also called insulin-like growth factor-1, or IGF-1) in the body. Blood levels of both proteins are controlled by human growth hormone (hGH), a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland in the brain that works with the endocrine system. The pituitary gland regulates the growth and function of other glands. But IGFBP-3 is more than a transporter. It also helps prolong the life of somatomedin C in the blood and helps control its effects on body tissues. IGFBP-3 levels are highest during childhood and puberty, then decline during adulthood. Levels can also be affected by puberty and nutritional status.

Sample required:

Venous blood

Key words:

IGFBP-3