Follistatin-344 – Mechanism, Benefits, and Side-effects

Follistatin is a peptide made from glycoprotein (sugar molecules and protein) produced by the FS cells (folliculostellate) of the pituitary gland. According to studies conducted on mice and rats, it is produced from the liver and found in all the tissues. Its primary function is the neutralization and binding of GDF-8 (Myostatin) and TGF-β. 

It can promote cell growth with an increase of Follistatin in muscle tissue (as a result of muscle damage). Although you can find it in different forms, Follistatin 344 is the basic form, and it is used in gene therapy. When injected, the normal form is converted into many forms by targeting different parts of the body.

Scientific Studies on Follistatin

According to scientific studies, the basic form of Follistatin (FS-344) and FDF 8 have therapeutic benefits like treating muscular dystrophy and others.

Clinical trials and research show that Myostatin inhibition increases muscle mass.

Mechanism of Follistatin

It can block the actions of hormones and proteins, including:

• FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) – involves in the gametes’ (sperm and eggs) development
• Myostatin – inhibits the growth of muscles
• Activins – involves in bone growth, neurogenesis, metabolism, apoptosis, cancer development, and endocrine homeostasis
• GDF-11 – one of the growth factors that help in the bone development

Follistatin Peptide Benefits

Although the scientific studies on Follistatin are limited, a few studies claim that it can help to provide the following health-related benefits, such as:

Muscle growth

According to a study conducted on 37 students, found that egg yolk-extracted Follistatin increases muscle mass by inhibiting the protein myostatin (which limits the development of muscle). For this reason, the supplement became popular in bodybuilding circles. A study on mice found that this peptide can stimulate muscle development by repairing and enhancing muscle growth.

Baldness

A clinical trial conducted on 26 males with baldness has shown that a Follistatin injection with growth factors improves hair growth and thickness. These results can be achieved with only one treatment and last up to 12 months. 

Naturally, a single trial is not sufficient; more research studies are needed to determine the long term prospects of this substance.

Reproductive Health

Many findings showed that this peptide plays a major part in reproductive health, and still, studies on the precise role are limited. The seminal fluid in men contains high Follistatin levels but is not linked to sperm count. In women, this substance enhances folliculogenesis, which prepares eggs to get released during ovulation from ovaries.

According to a study, an increase in the levels of this peptide during 3rd trimester of pregnancy can help with child labor as well as delivery. Also, it holds the activin activities (which plays a crucial role in various aspects of the reproductive system). 

Irregularity in the activities of activin and this peptide leads to problems like PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and other issues in pregnancy.

Cancer Development

Early research studies found that Follistatin peptide can help in promoting or inhibiting cancer development based on the cancer type. Most research studies are at the cell and animal stage, still, evidence is needed to make sure whether it shows similar effects in humans or not.

As of now, the peptide can help with various types of cancer, such as liver, breast, ovarian, and lung cancer. However, it negatively affects stomach, prostate, skin, and esophagus cancer.

In addition to the above, it can help prevent fat gain and muscle loss, among other benefits.

Peptide Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Follistatin are:

• Muscle soreness
• Temporary weakening of tendons and ligament

Many companies provide peptides at an affordable price including the option to buy Follistatin 344 online for research. From those, choose a reputable company that offers high-quality products and customer service. As always, talk to your doctor before taking this or any other supplements.