Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT618

Background: Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays a pivotal role in pubertal growth and development. Its levels peak during puberty, driven by growth hormone (GH) secretion, and are influenced by factors such as sexual dimorphism, nutritional status, and the timing of puberty onset. These interactions highlight IGF-1’s critical role in skeletal growth, sexual maturation, and overall development.

Objective: To explore the effects of puberty on IGF-1 levels and identify the factors—peak levels, sexual dimorphism, nutritional status, and timing variability—that influence its patterns during this

Methods: A comprehensive review of 10 studies was conducted, spanning various subjects, including adolescents, animal models, and in vitro research. The studies address IGF-1 dynamics during mid-puberty, sexual dimorphism, the influence of nutrition, and the variability in IGF-1 timing due to delayed or precocious puberty.

Results: Table: 1. Peak Levels During Mid-Puberty: GH and IGF-1 levels reach their highest during mid-puberty, essential for skeletal growth and bone density (Locatelli & Bianchi, 2014; Dixit et al., 2020).

2. Sexual Dimorphism: IGF-1 levels differ by sex, influenced by androgen and estrogen modulation, with higher levels noted during central precocious puberty in girls (Juul & Skakkebæk, 2019; Sørensen et al., 2012; Venken et al., 2006).

3. Interdependence with Nutritional Status: Malnutrition and chronic illness blunt IGF-1 levels, limiting growth, while well-nourished adolescents maintain higher IGF-1 levels (Mohan et al., 2003; Acerini et al., 2001; Turchyna et al., 2022).

4. Variability in Onset and Duration: Delayed or precocious puberty alters the timing and variability of IGF-1 levels, impacting growth trajectories (Dees et al., 2021).

Discussion: Puberty-induced IGF-1 changes are driven by GH secretion and influenced by multiple factors. Sexual dimorphism highlights hormonal modulation, while nutritional status underpins the IGF-1 response. Variability in timing emphasizes the dynamic nature of IGF-1, reflecting broader growth and developmental processes.

Conclusion: IGF-1 levels during puberty and the interplay of peak levels, sex differences, nutritional factors, and timing variability underscores its multifaceted role, necessitating a tailored approach to understanding IGF-1 dynamics.