Description

Follistatin 344

Description

Follistatin is a single-chain gonadal protein that specifically inhibits follicle-

stimulating hormone release. The single FST gene encodes two isoforms, FST317

and FST344 containing 317 and 344 amino acids respectively, resulting from

alternative splicing of the precursor mRNA. In a study in which 37 candidate genes

were tested for linkage and association with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or

hyperandrogenemia in 150 families, evidence was found for linkage between PCOS

and follistatin. Follistatin binds directly to activin and functions as an activin

antagonist, specific inhibitor of the biosynthesis and secretion of pituitary follicle

stimulating hormone (fsh).

Follistatin 344 is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, white lyophilized powder intended for

subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, after reconstitution with sterile Water for

Injection.

Mechanism of Action

Follistatin 344 is a naturally occurring human peptide and a potent inhibitor of

myostatin. Myostatin encourages the degradation of myotubes (skeletal muscle

fibers) therefore inhibition of myostatin will ultimately result in increased muscle

mass by preventing degradation. Follistatin is being studied for its role in regulation

of muscle growth, as an antagonist to myostatin (also known as GDF-8, a TGF

superfamily member). Lee & McPherron demonstrated that inhibition of GDF-8,

either by genetic elimination (knockout) or by increasing the amount of follistatin,

resulted in greatly increased muscle mass. In 2009, research with macaque

monkeys demonstrated that regulating follistatin via gene therapy also resulted in

muscle growth and increases in strength. A study has also shown that increased

levels of follistatin, by leading to increased muscle mass of certain core muscular

groups, can increase life expectancy in cases of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in

animal models. It is also being investigated for its involvement in polycystic ovary

syndrome (PCOS), though there is debate as to its direct role in this infertility disease.

Adverse reactions

Follistatin appears to have minimal side effects, may cause skeletal muscle growth

of up to 400% (based on the gene knockout experiments) and acts fast.

Instructions for reconstitution

Flip off the top of the peptide vial with your thumb. Use the alcohol swab to wipe the

rubber stopper of the peptide vial. Push the needle of the syringe into the middle of the

rubber stopper so it goes through the rubber and into the vial. Now, while angling the

needle so that the water for injection goes down the side of the glass, rather than

directly into the powder, inject the water for injection into the vial. Repeat this step until

you have the correct amount of water in the vial. The powder will dissolve quickly,

however it can help to gently roll the vial in between your fingers (do not shake the vial

vigorously). Remove the syringe and dispose of it. You should never re-use a syringe.

Dosage

Recommended dosage of Follistatin 344:

• 50 — 100 mcg once per day.

Storage

• After reconstitution, may be stored for a maximum of 14 days in a refrigerator at 2°C — 8°C.
• Store vials in an upright position.
• Store in a refrigerator (2°C — 8°C). Keep in the outer carton in order to protect from light.
• For one month can be stored at room temperature.