IGF deals with the process of cell growth and differentiation in a variety of cells. IGF helps to stimulate the Type I IGF receptor causing more activity in intracellular signaling molecules, leading to cell survival through inhibition of apoptosis.
In layman’s terms it means the quantity of cells present is increased and they in turn will split and produce new cells, but at the same time it will stop other cells from cell death otherwise known as cell apoptosis.
Skeletal muscle tissue increases from IGF are due to increases in satellite cell activity, differentiation, and increased protein synthesis. IGF is also believed to suppress the myostatin gene, which regulates ultimate cell growth, as well as by suppressing cortisol levels.
IGF causes hyperplasia, or new cell growth. While the product is far more anabolic than growth hormone, it is still recommended to use an androgen with the peptide to create more growth in the newly created cells. Most users report a noticeable increase in appetite right away.
This is because the peptide uses carbohydrates faster which must be replaced since they are protein sparing. Intense pumps are noticed within the first week of administration, lipolysis is usually noticed near the end of the cycle, but usually by way of increases of lean mass which cause a higher thermogenic effect.
The average muscle gain achieved after a IGF cycle averages at about 6 pounds so it is a very popular cycle amongst bodybuilders. If you need expert advice on steroid cycles then click on the link at the foot of this article and you will have found the steroid-encyclopaedia which is a must for anyone wishing to experiment in cycles.