Serum insulin-like growth factor 1 and facial ageing: High levels associate with reduced skin wrinkling in a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 is a growth factor that can influence fibroblast functioning, with effects including the inhibition of collagenases and the induction of collagen expression. Objectives To assess whether serum IGF-1, IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)3 and the ratio between IGF-1 and IGFBP3, as a measure of IGF-1 bioavailability, are associated with facial ageing and skin wrinkling. Methods From a random sample comprising 617 subjects from the Leiden Longevity Study, perceived age and skin wrinkling were assessed from facial photographs, and IGF-1 and IGFBP3 were measured in serum. The associations were assessed using linear regression models, adjusted for chronological..