MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)

MGF is a C-terminal peptide derived from the Eb domain of the local IGF-1 splice variant produced in mechanically stressed muscle. Unlike systemic hepatic IGF-1, MGF is expressed locally in damaged muscle fibres and acts specifically on muscle satellite cells via a unique receptor binding site distinct from the classic IGF-1 receptor. It activates quiescent satellite cells, driving them into proliferation without differentiating them - preserving the satellite cell pool while expanding it.