Follistatin-344 Peptide: Overview

Follistatin-344 is a synthetic peptide that mirrors a naturally occurring protein, Follistatin. It exists in two isomers—FST 317 and FST 344—differentiated by their amino acid composition. FST 344, with 315 amino acids, is the predominant variant found in various tissues. This peptide plays a crucial role in regulating cellular processes and has garnered attention for its potential in muscle growth and disease modulation.

Follistatin-344 Composition

• Synonyms: Activin-binding protein, FST, FSH-Suppressing protein
• Molecular Weight: 3780 g/mol
• Sequence: MVRARHQPGG LCLLLLLLCQ FMEDRSAQAG NCWLRQAKNG RCQVLYKTEL SKEECCSTGR LSTSWTEEDV NDNTLFKWMI FNGGAPNCIP CKETCENVDC GPGKKCRMNK KNKPRCVCAP DCSNITWKGP VCGLDGKTYR NECALLKARC KEQPELEVQY QGRCKKTCRD VFCPGSSTCV VDQTNNAYCV TCNRICPEPA SSEQYLCGND GVTYSSACHL RKATCLLGRS IGLAYEGKCI KAKSCEDIQC TGGKKCLWDF KVGRGRCSLC DELCPDSKSD EPVCASDNAT YASECAMKEA ACSSGVLLEV KHSGSCNSIS EDTEEEEEDE DQDYSFPISS ILEW

Benefits of Follistatin-344

Muscle Cell Proliferation

Follistatin-344 interacts with the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGFβ) superfamily, particularly targeting Myostatin, which inhibits muscle cell proliferation. By binding to Myostatin, it  may facilitate muscle cell expansion and specialization, contributing to increased muscle mass through both hyperplasia (growth in fiber number) and hypertrophy (growth in fiber size). Studies indicate that Follistatin-344 can enhance muscle development even in the absence of other growth factors.

Role in Muscle Diseases

Follistatin-344 shows promise in research related to muscular diseases like muscular dystrophy. It may reduce inflammation and fibrosis, supporting muscle cell development and potentially alleviating the severity of conditions like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Cancer Research

• Breast Cancer: Studies reveal that Follistatin-344 is under-expressed in many breast cancer cases. Over-expression correlates with better prognosis, potentially preventing metastasis without promoting tumor growth.
• Esophageal Carcinoma: Follistatin-344 may inhibit Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP) activity, which is linked to the malignant transformation of tissues. This inhibition might disrupt the early stages of cancer development, particularly in conditions exacerbated by acid reflux.

Diabetes Management

Follistatin-344 has been shown to increase pancreatic beta-cell mass, improving insulin synthesis and glucose regulation. By inhibiting pathways activated by TGF-β superfamily members, it may enhance beta-cell proliferation and metabolic profiles in diabetes models.

Interaction with Activin A

This product also inhibits Activin A, a protein involved in muscle metabolism. By counteracting Activin A, Follistatin-344 may prevent muscle degradation, making it a potential therapeutic approach for muscle atrophy and weakness.