Why an analogue that binds its receptor less well works better in culture and in rats

Published 26 October 2026 · REVIVE LAB UAE Research Desk · 5 min read
Francis and colleagues reported in 1992 that Long R3 IGF-1 bound the type 1 IGF receptor with affinity a few fold lower than native IGF-1, while binding the IGF-binding proteins far less. In culture and in rats it was nonetheless more potent. The explanation is that native IGF-1 added to a system containing binding proteins is largely sequestered, so only a small free fraction reaches receptors; the analogue is not sequestered, so nearly all of it is free. Potency depends on the free concentration at the receptor, not on the amount added.

The measurements

Receptor binding was measured by competition against labelled IGF-1 on cells or membranes; binding-protein affinity by competition for purified or secreted binding proteins. The analogue lost a little of the first and most of the second. Cell proliferation in media containing binding proteins then showed the analogue more active per nanogram added.

The same pattern had been seen for des(1-3)IGF-1.

The resolution

Cultured cells secrete binding proteins; serum contains them in abundance; tissues hold them in the matrix. Added native IGF-1 equilibrates with these and a large fraction is held. The analogue bypasses the reservoir. Where there are no binding proteins — a purified receptor preparation — native IGF-1 is the more potent of the two, exactly as the affinities predict.

This is why potency comparisons depend entirely on the system they are made in.

What it means for the molecule

IGF-1 LR3 is a tool for delivering IGF-1 receptor agonism in systems where binding proteins would otherwise interfere. It is not a stronger agonist; it is a less sequestered one. The distinction is the basis of every claim about it and is stated here as such.

IGF-1 LR3 is supplied by REVIVE LAB UAE for laboratory research use only, with identity and purity documented for the batch. It is not for human or veterinary use, and no dosing, administration or protocol guidance is provided.

What it costs

FormatStrengthPriceAvailability
IGF-1 LR3 Pack1 mgAED 650In stock

Delivery is AED 40 flat and free on orders over AED 700. Payment is cash on delivery anywhere in the UAE, or USDT (TRC20) in advance, which takes 5% off the order total.

Frequently asked

The measurements?

Receptor binding was measured by competition against labelled IGF-1 on cells or membranes; binding-protein affinity by competition for purified or secreted binding proteins. The analogue lost a little of the first and most of the second. Cell proliferation in media containing binding proteins then showed the analogue more active per nanogram added.

Does REVIVE LAB UAE provide dosing guidance?

No. REVIVE LAB UAE supplies research materials and provides no dosing, administration or protocol guidance of any kind. Every product is sold for laboratory research use only and is not for human or veterinary consumption.

How fast is delivery in the UAE?

Stock is held in Dubai. An order confirmed before 4 PM Dubai time is dispatched the same working day, reaching Dubai and Abu Dhabi the same day and the remaining emirates within 24 hours. Delivery is AED 40 flat and free over AED 700.

IGF-1 LR3 Pack — in stock, dispatched from Dubai
HPLC-verified, lot certificate on every carton, 24-hour delivery nationwide. Browse the catalogue → All peptides UAE

Related reading

Supplied for laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. REVIVE LAB UAE provides no dosing, administration or protocol guidance.