Description

Follistatin-344 (FST-344) is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring human glycoprotein that acts as a high-affinity antagonist to members of the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-$\beta$) superfamily. Its primary research function is the potent inhibition of Myostatin (GDF-8), a protein that negatively regulates skeletal muscle mass. By sequestering myostatin and preventing it from binding to the Activin IIB receptor, Follistatin-344 provides a pathway for studying unregulated muscle fiber proliferation and the suppression of adipogenesis.

Performance Peptides Canada provides Follistatin-344 in 1mg vials at 99%+ HPLC-verified purity. Our domestic fulfillment ensures that this sensitive glycoprotein is shipped with the structural integrity required for advanced research into muscle wasting diseases and follicular development.

Technical Specifications & Chemical Profile

Our Follistatin-344 is synthesized to meet the following analytical benchmarks:

• Molecular Weight: ~35.0–38.0 kDa (due to glycosylation)
• Structure: Single-chain glycoprotein containing 344 amino acids.
• Purity: ≥99.0% (Verified via HPLC/SEC)
• Biological Activity: Verified myostatin-binding affinity.
• Form: Lyophilized white powder.

Primary Research Mechanisms & Muscle Regulation

Follistatin-344 research focuses on its ability to shift the balance between muscle synthesis and degradation.

1. Myostatin Inhibition & Hyperplasia

Myostatin is the “brake” of the muscular system. Follistatin-344 binds directly to myostatin, preventing it from activating the Smad signaling pathway that inhibits myogenesis. Researchers utilize FST-344 to study hyperplasia (the creation of new muscle cells) and hypertrophy (the increase in size of existing cells) in models of muscular dystrophy and sarcopenia.

2. Activin & Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Beyond muscle research, Follistatin is a major regulator in the reproductive system. It binds to and neutralizes Activin, which in turn suppresses the secretion of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. This makes it a primary entity for investigating ovarian function and reproductive endocrinology.

3. Suppression of Fibrosis

TGF-$\beta$ signaling is a key driver of tissue scarring. Follistatin-344 is investigated for its potential to reduce fibrosis in skeletal muscle, the heart, and the liver. By neutralizing the ligands that trigger fibroblast activation, researchers study how Follistatin can facilitate higher-quality tissue repair following injury.

Reconstitution & Stability Benchmarks

As a large, complex glycoprotein, Follistatin-344 is significantly more fragile than short-chain peptides like BPC-157.

• Reconstitution: Recommended diluent is Sterile Water for Injection or 0.9% Sterile Saline.
• Technique: Gently roll the vial to dissolve. Never shake. Shaking can denature the glycoprotein’s secondary and tertiary structures, rendering it biologically inactive.
• Solubility: Should result in a clear, colorless solution.

Stability Data

Storage Note: Because of its large size and complex folding, Follistatin-344 is highly sensitive to repeated freeze-thaw cycles. It is recommended to reconstitute only what is needed for immediate research.

Follistatin-344 Research FAQ

Q: What is the difference between Follistatin-315 and Follistatin-344?

A: Follistatin-344 is the precursor to the Follistatin-315 isoform. In research, the 344 version is often preferred for its autocrine-like behavior, meaning it tends to stay localized to the tissue where it is introduced, whereas other forms may enter systemic circulation more readily.

Q: Does Follistatin-344 cause permanent muscle growth?

A: In research models, the effects of myostatin inhibition last as long as the ligand is active and binding the myostatin proteins. It is used to study the potential for growth and the biological limits of muscle mass.

Q: Is this product shipped from within Canada?

A: Yes. Performance Peptides Canada ships all Follistatin-344 domestically. This is critical for high-molecular-weight glycoproteins, which can be easily damaged by the extreme transit times and temperature fluctuations of international shipping.