Follistatin-344 — Vendor Pricing & Purity Guide
Research Overview
Follistatin-344 (FST-344) is a recombinant protein that binds and neutralizes activin and myostatin, two members of the TGF-β superfamily that act as negative regulators of muscle growth. By blocking these "muscle growth brakes," Follistatin effectively removes the body's natural limits on muscle hypertrophy. The "344" refers to the 344-amino-acid isoform, which is the most commonly available research form.
Myostatin inhibition has been one of the most sought-after targets in muscle biology since the discovery of myostatin-knockout mice (the "mighty mice") in 1997, which showed dramatic muscle hypertrophy. Follistatin is the body's natural myostatin antagonist, and supplemental Follistatin-344 amplifies this antagonism. Unlike direct myostatin antibodies or blockers, Follistatin also inhibits activin, providing broader anabolic signaling.
Follistatin-344 is a significantly larger and more complex molecule than most research peptides — it's a full protein requiring careful handling. It is more expensive to manufacture, less stable, and more sensitive to temperature and handling conditions. Despite these challenges, it remains one of the most popular research compounds in the muscle growth category.
Key Research Findings
- •Follistatin gene therapy produced 15-25% muscle mass increase in primate studies (Kota et al., 2009)
- •Myostatin-knockout models (which Follistatin mimics) show 2-3x normal muscle mass with minimal fat
- •Improved muscle regeneration in mdx mice (Duchenne muscular dystrophy model)
- •Phase I gene therapy trial for Becker muscular dystrophy using Follistatin showed improved walking distance
- •Blocked activin-mediated muscle wasting in cancer cachexia models, preserving lean mass
- •Regulated FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels through activin binding, with implications for fertility research
Research Dosage Protocols
Follistatin-344 is a large recombinant protein (not a small peptide) requiring careful reconstitution. It is supplied as lyophilized powder and reconstituted with sterile water, not bacteriostatic water (the preservative can damage the protein structure). Reconstituted Follistatin must be stored at 2-8°C and used promptly.
Research doses vary widely in published literature. Gene therapy studies delivered Follistatin via viral vectors. Recombinant protein studies in animal models typically used doses of 10-100 mcg.
Researchers should note that Follistatin-344 is sensitive to heat, shaking, and freeze-thaw cycles. Aliquoting into single-use portions after reconstitution is recommended to avoid protein degradation.
For research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
Price Comparison (14 products from 7 vendors)
| Vendor | Price | Stock |
|---|---|---|
| BioLongevity Labs | $799.00 $79.90/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Pure Rawz | $132.12 $132.12/mg 1mg vial | In Stock |
| Core Peptides | $138.00 $138.00/mg 1mg vial | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $152.95 $152.95/mg 1mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $155.00 $155.00/mg 1mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Biotech Peptides | $162.00 $162.00/mg 1mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $175.00 $175.00/mg 1mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $2397.00 $239.70/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $2397.00 $239.70/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $99.99 vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $5397.00 vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $7194.00 vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $1799.00 vial | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $1199.00 vial | In Stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Follistatin-344?
Follistatin-344 is a recombinant protein that neutralizes myostatin and activin — the body's natural muscle growth inhibitors. By blocking these signals, it removes biological limits on muscle hypertrophy.
Is Follistatin a peptide?
Technically, Follistatin-344 is a protein (344 amino acids), not a peptide. It is significantly larger and more complex than typical research peptides, requiring more careful handling and storage.
How does Follistatin compare to ACE-031?
Both target the myostatin/activin pathway. Follistatin is the body's natural antagonist. ACE-031 is a synthetic soluble ActRIIB receptor that acts as a decoy. ACE-031 reached Phase II clinical trials for muscular dystrophy but was discontinued due to safety concerns.
Where can I buy Follistatin-344 for research?
Follistatin-344 is available from select research peptide vendors. Compare pricing in the table above. Due to its protein nature, prioritize vendors with verified cold-chain shipping.