Biology of IGF-1

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Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) is an anabolic effector hormone that, in recent years, has been linked with several types of malignancy. These include prostate, ovarian and colon cancers. However, the nature of this relationship with cancer is uncertain and the linkage itself is controversial. The IGF-1 receptors and signalling pathways are similar to those of insulin, even though the biological actions of these hormones are different. Because of the similarities, insulin is often also considered when the link between IGF-1 and cancer is discussed. The clinical use of long-term growth hormone treatment is increasing and such treatment leads to raised IGF-1 levels. Increased insulin levels are also more common as the prevalence of insulin resistance, which frequently presages obesity and/or type 2 diabetes, increases in the population. Therefore, a careful discussion of the role of IGF-1 and insulin in various cancers is urgently needed. This book examines these issues in detail. It features contributions from the leading scientists and clinicians in the field and should prove essential reading for anyone with a clinical interest in insulin and the IGFs.