insulin-like growth factor

noun

in·​su·​lin-like growth factor ˈin(t)-s(ə-)lən-ˈlīk- How to pronounce insulin-like growth factor (audio)
: either of two polypeptides structurally similar to insulin that are secreted either during fetal development or during childhood and that mediate growth hormone activity

Examples of insulin-like growth factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
People who take a GLP-1 medication also tend to have elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a growth hormone that helps control sebum production. — Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 10 Apr. 2025 During childhood, hormones—including thyroid hormones, human growth hormone (HGH), and insulin-like growth factor 1—play a major role in healthy growth and development. — Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insulin-like growth factor was in 1976

Rhymes for insulin-like growth factor

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Browse Nearby Words

insulinize
insulin-like growth factor
insulin resistance
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Cite this Entry

“Insulin-like growth factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulin-like%20growth%20factor. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

insulin-like growth factor

noun
in·​su·​lin-like growth factor ˌin(t)-s(ə-)lən-ˌlīk- How to pronounce insulin-like growth factor (audio)
: either of two polypeptides structurally similar to insulin that are secreted either during fetal development or during childhood and that mediate growth hormone activity
especially : insulin-like growth factor 1
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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