Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP-3) is a circulating and intracellular protein consisting of 264 amino acids with a molecular weight ranging from 28.7 kDa to 53 kDa^[1]. As a member of the insulin-like growth factor binding protein family—which comprises six major isoforms (IGFBP-1 through IGFBP-6)—IGFBP-3 plays a critical role in regulating IGF-1 bioavailability. Driven by growth hormone (GH) stimulation, IGFBP-3 binds circulating IGF-1 to form stable complexes, acting as a critical modulator of the biological effects of IGF-1 like growth promotion and metabolic regulation^[2].

Primarily synthesized in the liver, IGFBP-3 is the most prevalent binding protein in adult serum^[2]. It acts as a vital transport carrier, extending the half-life of IGFs and regulating their metabolic clearance (avoiding IGF-1 degradation by proteolysis)^[3].

Clinically, serum IGFBP-3 quantification is a standard aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of Growth Hormone (GH) disorders, such as acromegaly and GH deficiency^[4].

How Werfen can support you

We can support your immunoassay portfolio expansion in the endocrinology panel by providing specifically designed antibodies to detect IGFBP-3.

Werfen endocrinology portfolio consist of the following products.

Contact us for further information on product availability and development stage

Using the newly developed IGFBP-3 monoclonal antibodies, our R&D team developed a CLIA prototype for quantitative detection of IGFBP-3 in human serum. Read the full technical note here.