Insulin-like growth factor-II: new roles for an old actor

Abstract

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IGF-II, traditionally considered as a growth factor implicated in growth of fetal tissues and cancer cells, is now emerging as a potential metabolic regulator. The aim of this overview is to provide the available evidence, obtained in both experimental conditions and in humans, for a role of IGF-II in the fine-tuning of metabolism and body composition. The underlying mechanisms and the potential clinical implications are discussed.

Keywords

• Body Composition
• Insulin
• Insulin-Like Growth Factor I
• Insulin-Like Growth Factor II
• Insulin receptor