Zapf J, Froesch E R
Horm Res. 1986;24(2-3):121-30. doi: 10.1159/000180551.
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs, somatomedins) are structural homologues of insulin with insulin-like biological activity. They are mainly synthesized and secreted by the liver, but may also be produced by extrahepatic tissues. In their native from in blood they are bound to specific carrier protein(s). This determines essentially their biological actions. The complexed factors stimulate growth indices in vitro and in vivo, but, in contrast to the free factors, do not exert acute effects on insulin target tissues.
胰岛素样生长因子（IGFs，生长调节素）是具有胰岛素样生物活性的胰岛素结构同源物。它们主要由肝脏合成和分泌，但也可能由肝外组织产生。在血液中，它们以天然形式与特定的载体蛋白结合。这基本上决定了它们的生物学作用。与游离因子不同，这些复合因子在体外和体内均可刺激生长指标，但对胰岛素靶组织无急性作用。
