Progranulin compensates for blocked IGF-1 signaling to promote myotube hypertrophy in C2C12 myoblasts via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

► We clarify the function and roles of PGRN in muscle growth and its association with IGF-1 signaling. ► We demonstrate that PGRN stimulates mouse C2C12 myotube hypertrophy via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. ► We demonstrate the function of PGRN in muscle growth and indicated a compensative role for PGRN and IGF-1 signaling.