MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
A profile on the IGF-1 splice variant responsible for activating muscle stem cells, specifically focusing on PEG-MGF.
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
MGF is a splice variant of the IGF-1 gene. In the human body, it is produced naturally in muscle tissue immediately after mechanical overload (heavy weight training).
Its primary job is to wake up dormant Satellite Cells (muscle stem cells) so they can fuse to the muscle fiber and create new growth.
However, natural MGF has a half-life of just minutes. To make it usable as a drug, scientists attach a Polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule to it, creating PEG-MGF. This extends the half-life from minutes to days.
Quick Specs
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Active Compound | PEG-MGF |
| Half-Life | ~48-72 Hours (PEGylated) |
| Mechanism | Satellite Cell Activator |
| Administration | Subcutaneous (SubQ) or IM |
Mechanism of Action
While IGF-1 LR3 causes hypertrophy (existing cells getting bigger), MGF causes hyperplasia (activation of new cells).
- Damage Signal: It signals that tissue has been damaged and needs repair.
- Stem Cell Activation: It pulls satellite cells out of dormancy.
- Pathway: Interestingly, MGF eventually runs out of steam and the body switches to producing IGF-1Ea to finish the repair. MGF is the "spark."
Pharmacokinetics & Dosing
PEG-MGF vs. Regular MGF
- Regular MGF: Useless for injection because it is destroyed by the body within minutes.
- PEG-MGF: The standard form. It is systemic.
Dosing Protocol
- Dosage: 200mcg - 400mcg.
- Frequency: On Rest Days or Post-Workout.
- The Logic: Natural MGF spikes immediately post-workout. Some argue injecting PEG-MGF post-workout blunts the natural signal. Therefore, many users inject it 24 hours after the workout (on rest days) to keep the satellite cell activation signal turned "on" for longer.
- Route: Since it is PEGylated and systemic, you can inject it SubQ in belly fat. Local site injection is not strictly necessary for PEG-MGF, though many still do it.
Primary Effects
1. Recovery
Accelerates the repair of damaged muscle tissue.
2. Lagging Body Parts
Often used to bring up weak muscle groups by increasing the pool of available nuclei for growth.
Side Effects & Harm Reduction
Hypoglycemia:
Blood Sugar: Like all IGF-1 variants, MGF can lower blood sugar, though less aggressively than IGF-1 LR3. Have carbs ready.
1. Injection Site
The PEG agent can be irritating. Redness or a small lump at the injection site is common.
Tracking MGF
Using the Anabolic Tracker app:
- Inventory: Add PEG-MGF.
- Scheduling: Rest Days or Post-Workout.
- Metrics: Track Recovery (soreness duration).
Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only. MGF is a research chemical.