Peptide Handbook
Specialized Peptides

Follistatin 344

Myostatin/Activin Binding Protein

Updated April 14, 2026

What is Follistatin 344?

A 344-amino-acid glycoprotein that binds and neutralizes activin, myostatin (GDF-8), and other TGF-β superfamily ligands with high affinity. Follistatin-344 is the longest isoform, containing a heparin-binding domain that anchors it to cell surfaces — providing localized myostatin inhibition rather than systemic neutralization. By blocking myostatin signaling, follistatin-344 removes the primary endogenous brake on skeletal muscle growth. The follistatin-myostatin axis is the most validated genetic pathway for muscle mass regulation.

Research Profile

Structure 344 amino acids (~38 kDa) — glycosylated, heparin-binding domain
Targets Myostatin (GDF-8), activin A/B, GDF-11 (neutralization)
Research Focus Muscle hypertrophy, myostatin biology, TGF-β signaling, sarcopenia, muscular dystrophy
Reconstitution Bacteriostatic water — reconstitute gently, do not vortex
Stability 7–14 days at 2–8°C; protein sensitive to denaturation
Key distinction: Natural myostatin antagonist — the heparin-binding domain of the 344 isoform provides localized rather than systemic myostatin neutralization, distinguishing it from the circulating FS-315 isoform.

Published Research

[1] Lee SJ, McPherron AC. Regulation of myostatin activity and muscle growth. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2001;98:9306-9311 — PubMed 11459935
[2] Haidet AM et al. Long-term enhancement of skeletal muscle mass and strength by single gene administration of myostatin inhibitors. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2008;105:4318-4322 — PubMed 18334646
Research Use Only. All products sold by Lumen Peppers are intended solely for in vitro research and laboratory purposes. They are not drugs, supplements, or foods. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice. Researchers are responsible for compliance with all applicable regulations. Last updated: April 14, 2026.

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