IGF1Ea

IGF1Ea, also known as Igf1e1, is a variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) that is found in certain species, particularly fish. It is a protein hormone that plays a crucial role in growth and development. While mammals primarily produce IGF-1, fish have evolved to produce different isoforms, including IGF1Ea. This variant shares significant structural and functional similarities with mammalian IGF-1, acting through the IGF-1 receptor to stimulate cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation.

The IGF1Ea gene is expressed in various tissues of fish, and its production can be influenced by factors such as nutritional status and environmental conditions. Research has shown that IGF1Ea is involved in regulating somatic growth, sexual maturation, and metabolic processes in fish. Its importance in aquaculture is also being recognized, as manipulating IGF1Ea levels could potentially enhance growth rates and improve the overall health of farmed fish. Studies exploring the specific signaling pathways and downstream effects of IGF1Ea are ongoing, contributing to a deeper understanding of its biological functions in aquatic vertebrates.