What is MGF?
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor), formally the IGF-1Ec splice variant, is a form of insulin-like growth factor 1 that muscle tissue produces in response to mechanical overload. Its research interest is local tissue repair: MGF is associated with activating muscle satellite cells, an early step in the repair and growth response to training damage.
MGF is very short-acting — its systemic half-life is measured in minutes — so it acts locally and briefly. This is the key distinction from its pegylated cousin: for a longer, systemic version, see PEG-MGF.
Reconstitution
Unlike the acidic IGF-1 analogs (LR3 and DES), MGF reconstitutes normally with bacteriostatic water — it does not require acetic acid.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Peptide Amount | 2mg |
| Reconstitution Solvent | Bacteriostatic water |
| Recommended Volume | 2mL |
| Resulting Concentration | 1mg/mL (1000mcg/mL) |
| Typical Research Dose | 100mcg - 200mcg |
| Frequency | Post-exercise (local) |
Reconstitution Guide
Materials Needed
- MGF 2mg lyophilized vial
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Insulin syringes (U-100, 29-31 gauge)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare workspace — Clean environment, gather materials, thorough handwashing.
-
Clean vial stoppers — Wipe both vials with alcohol swabs. Allow complete drying.
-
Draw BAC water — Draw 2mL bacteriostatic water using a sterile syringe.
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Add to peptide — Inject slowly down the inside wall of the vial. Do not spray directly onto the powder.
-
Dissolve — Allow a few minutes for complete dissolution. Gentle swirl only — no shaking.
-
Verify — Solution must be completely clear.
-
Label and store — Note reconstitution date. Refrigerate immediately.
Dosage Protocol
Concentration Calculations
With 2mg peptide in 2mL BAC water:
- Concentration: 1mg/mL = 1000mcg/mL
- Per unit (U-100 syringe): 10mcg per unit
Common Dose Calculations
| Desired Dose | Draw Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 100mcg | 0.10mL | 10 units |
| 150mcg | 0.15mL | 15 units |
| 200mcg | 0.20mL | 20 units |
Because MGF is very short-acting, research protocols commonly time administration to the immediate post-exercise window and target the tissue of interest, rather than dosing for a sustained systemic level.
Research Considerations
Mechanism
MGF is the mechanically-induced splice variant of IGF-1. It is studied for its role in the early, local muscle-repair response — particularly satellite-cell activation — after mechanical overload. Its brief systemic presence is why it is thought of as a local rather than systemic signal.
Comparison Within the IGF Family
| Compound | Key trait | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MGF | Splice variant, local repair | Very short |
| PEG-MGF | Pegylated MGF | Extended |
| IGF-1 LR3 | Reduced IGFBP binding, extended action | Long |
| IGF-1 DES | Truncated, potent, local | Short |
For the full family breakdown, see our IGF-1 LR3 vs DES vs MGF comparison.
Storage Requirements
Lyophilized (Powder)
- Temperature: -20°C or colder
- Duration: 2+ years
- Conditions: Dry, dark, protected from moisture
Reconstituted
- Temperature: 2-8°C (refrigerated)
- Duration: 2-3 weeks
- Conditions: Protected from light, never freeze
Safety Considerations
Research Precautions
- MGF is a research compound
- Not approved for any indication in any jurisdiction
- Research use only — not for human consumption
- Limited long-term safety data available
Handling
- Use sterile technique for all preparations
- Never reuse needles or syringes
- Proper sharps disposal
Sourcing for Research
Source from verified suppliers that provide third-party testing and certificates of analysis (COA) for each batch. Compare purity documentation, shipping conditions, and batch traceability before purchasing research materials.
Scientific References
- Research literature on the IGF-1Ec (Mechano Growth Factor) splice variant and mechanical-overload-induced expression.
- Research literature on satellite-cell activation and local muscle repair signalling.
Last updated: July 19, 2026
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and research purposes only. MGF is a research compound and is not approved for any use. Research-grade peptides are not intended for human consumption. Always follow applicable laws and institutional guidelines.