Mechanisms
Insulin-like growth factor I may suppress Lp(a) synthesis, opening a novel avenue for hyperlipoproteinemia(a) treatment, a review (Growth Horm IGF Res 2023)
Original title: Administration of insulin like growth factor I (IGFI) lowers serum lipoprotein(a)-impact on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
This brief review by Laron and Werner presents evidence that insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), the liver-secreted hormone mediating growth-hormone action in children, has an additional metabolic effect of suppressing Lp(a) synthesis, an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Based on this property, the authors suggest that IGF-I administration could be considered as a novel addition to the treatment armamentarium for hyperlipoproteinemia(a), alongside existing and emerging Lp(a)-lowering strategies.
Original abstract
Insulin like growth factor I (IGFI) secreted by the liver upon stimulation by pituitary growth hormone (GH) acts as the most important growth stimulating hormone in children. The present review presents evidence that among its additional metabolic effects, IGF-I suppresses the synthesis of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In view of this property, it is suggested that the addition of IGF-I to the armamentarium of hyperlipoproteinemia treatment should be considered.
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.