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Follistatin-344
DLimited DataFollistatin isoform (autocrine/secreted glycoprotein) · 344 amino acids
Follistatin-344 is the full-length human follistatin isoform that binds and inhibits myostatin, activin, and other TGF-beta family members. It is a naturally occurring protein, not a synthetic peptide, but the recombinant form is sold as a research chemical for muscle growth. Gene therapy trials using follistatin have been conducted for muscular dystrophy.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to myostatin and activin with high affinity, preventing them from activating ActRIIB receptors on muscle cells. Myostatin normally limits muscle growth; blocking it removes this brake, allowing muscle hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Also has roles in reproductive biology and inflammation via activin inhibition.
Benefits
- Potent muscle hypertrophy in animal models via myostatin inhibition
- Investigated in gene therapy trials for muscular dystrophy
- May improve muscle function in degenerative muscle diseases
Side Effects
- No human safety data for exogenous follistatin-344 protein
- Reproductive effects (follistatin regulates FSH via activin inhibition)
- Ocular side effects reported in gene therapy trials (retinal detachment)
- Immunogenicity risk with repeated injections of foreign protein
- Not approved for human use as a protein drug
Considering Peptide Research?
Follistatin-344 is not FDA-approved. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before considering any peptide.
Use the Peptide FinderResearch & Evidence
Detection of black market follistatin 344.
Confirmed the presence of follistatin-344 in black market products sold online, highlighting unregulated distribution and quality concerns
PMID: 33460286References
- 1. Detection of black market follistatin 344.. Drug Test Anal, 2020. “Confirmed the presence of follistatin-344 in black market products sold online, highlighting unregulated distribution and quality concerns” [PMID: 33460286]
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Follistatin-344 FAQ
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.
No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.
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