Mechanogrowth Factor (MGF), also known as IGF-IEc, is an isoform of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) that plays a crucial role in muscle repair and regeneration. MGF is particularly noted for its localized effects, activating satellite cells—muscle progenitor cells that are vital for muscle growth and recovery following injury or stress (Hameed et al., 2003; (Yang & Goldspink, 2002; .

Recommended Dosage and Usage

Dosage: The typical dosage of MGF varies widely based on individual goals and protocols, with suggested ranges often between 100 to 200 micrograms per injection, administered subcutaneously. Users may inject MGF once to twice a week, particularly following intense resistance training sessions or muscle trauma for optimal recovery and muscle regeneration (Usuki et al., 2019; Park et al., 2022; .

Administration Method: MGF is generally administered via subcutaneous injections, allowing for targeted delivery around the muscle tissue needing repair or enhancement. This method promotes better local concentrations and efficacy compared to other routes Fortes et al., 2017).

Clinical Applications: MGF is particularly relevant in the context of muscle damage caused by intense exercise or injury. It is known to be upregulated in response to mechanical overload or tissue injury, leading to the activation of satellite cells, promoting their proliferation and differentiation into myotubes necessary for muscle fiber repair (Wei et al., 2022; Li et al., 2025). Studies suggest that MGF can stimulate muscle hypertrophy by enhancing myoblast proliferation and fusion, ultimately increasing muscle mass and strength (Yang & Goldspink, 2002; Hill et al., 2003).

Research has shown that MGF plays a role not just in muscle recovery but also in adaptation to resistance exercise. For instance, resistance training induces the secretion of circulating IGF-1, and MGF levels are increased, particularly in the early phases after mechanical stress, leading to enhanced muscle protein synthesis via pathways such as the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway (Usuki et al., 2019; Park et al., 2022; Gundersen, 2010). This impact on signaling is crucial since it can significantly influence muscle hypertrophy and overall strength adaptations.

Safety and Considerations

While MGF has valuable therapeutic attributes, its use should be approached cautiously. The lack of extensive clinical data on its long-term effects and safety profile necessitates careful monitoring and adherence to recommended dosages. Potential side effects may include mild injection site reactions or more systemic effects, although these are less commonly reported (Hameed et al., 2003; Fortes et al., 2017).

Conclusion

MGF is an important player in the field of muscle biology, particularly for its role in enhancing muscle recovery and hypertrophy through satellite cell activation. With recommended dosages typically between 100 to 200 micrograms, MGF can be effectively administered via subcutaneous injection several times a week. Continued research into MGF could further elucidate its mechanisms of action and broaden its applications in muscle regeneration and muscular dystrophies.