GDF-8 1mg

GDF-8, commonly known as myostatin, is a member of the TGF-beta superfamily that serves as the primary negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. It was discovered by Se-Jin Lee and Alexandra McPherron at Johns Hopkins University in 1997 when they created myostatin knockout mice that developed dramatically increased muscle mass (approximately 2-3 times normal). Myostatin signals through activin type IIB receptors (ActRIIB) on muscle cell surfaces, activating the SMAD2/3 transcription factor pathway. This signaling inhibits myoblast proliferation and differentiation, suppresses protein synthesis via mTOR pathway inhibition, and promotes protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. The net effect is powerful suppression of muscle growth and maintenance. Research-grade GDF-8 is used as a tool compound to study myostatin signaling pathways, develop myostatin inhibitors, and understand muscle wasting conditions. Natural mutations that reduce myostatin function have been identified in cattle (Belgian Blue, Piedmontese), dogs (whippets), sheep, and at least one documented human case — all resulting in exceptional musculature. This genetic validation has made myostatin inhibition a major therapeutic target for muscle wasting diseases including muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, and cancer cachexia.

GDF-8, commonly known as myostatin, is a member of the TGF-beta superfamily that serves as the primary negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. It was discovered by Se-Jin Lee and Alexandra McPherron at Johns Hopkins University in 1997 when they created myostatin knockout mice that developed dramatically increased muscle mass (approximately 2-3 times normal). Myostatin signals through activin type IIB receptors (ActRIIB) on muscle cell surfaces, activating the SMAD2/3 transcription factor pathway. This signaling inhibits myoblast proliferation and differentiation, suppresses protein synthesis via mTOR pathway inhibition, and promotes protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. The net effect is powerful suppression of muscle growth and maintenance. Research-grade GDF-8 is used as a tool compound to study myostatin signaling pathways, develop myostatin inhibitors, and understand muscle wasting conditions. Natural mutations that reduce myostatin function have been identified in cattle (Belgian Blue, Piedmontese), dogs (whippets), sheep, and at least one documented human case — all resulting in exceptional musculature. This genetic validation has made myostatin inhibition a major therapeutic target for muscle wasting diseases including muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, and cancer cachexia.

Used as a signaling tool compound at 10-100 ng/mL in cell culture. In vivo dosing varies by application. Recombinant myostatin is typically used for signaling studies rather than direct administration protocols.

Store lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder at -20°C to 4°C in a dry environment protected from light. Unreconstituted peptide is stable for extended periods when stored properly.

Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water or an appropriate solvent, store at 2-8°C and use within the timeframe specified on the Certificate of Analysis. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

A Certificate of Analysis documenting purity, identity, and recommended storage conditions is included with every order.