Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) Blood Test, LC/MS
The insulin-like growth factor 2 (IFG-2) test may be used as an adjunct to IGF-1 in the diagnosis of growth disorders.
Description
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2), also called somatomedin A, is a hormone produced by the human body. It is one of the three protein hormones that are manufactured by the liver. IGF-2 encourages cell division in a variety of tissues, prepares the uterus for pregnancy, and causes embryonic growth after conception has taken place. The basic function of IGF-2 is to provide a vital role in growth and development processes in a developing fetus. It exerts its function primarily by binding to the IGF-1 receptor. Failure of this imprinting mechanism can cause over-expression of the protein and may be involved in several diseases.