Growth hormone (GH): what are its functions?

Growth hormone (GH) is a substance secreted from somatotropic cells in the anterior pituitary gland.. Thanks to it, not only growth and development are favored, but it also performs important metabolic tasks.

We are not wrong if we say that since all the applications and functions of this hormone were discovered in the 1960s, It has become one of the most interesting fields of research of endocrinology. Also one of the most profitable.

We know that administration in its synthetic version (somatropin) produced with recombinant DNA technology treats multiple growth disorders and syndromes. Likewise, it is also often used illegally for non-medical purposes, such as anti-aging treatments, muscle improvement, physical endurance, and loss of body fat.

Be that as it may, there is something undeniable, growth hormone is an essential element in our biology. Its proper functioning depends on one of the most fascinating brain regions of the brain: the pituitary gland. A small structure that tends to decalcify early.

Growth hormone: functions, alterations and curiosities

Growth hormone is a protein substance that stimulates child growth and also ensures the health of tissues and organs. It is not limited exclusively to promoting development. It is present in multiple processes, in tasks that generally intervene in the good condition of bones, muscles, etc. Hence, it is also known as the “anti-aging hormone.”

The discovery of this hormone dates back to 1912. It was Dr. Harvey Cushing who described it for the first time, highlighting its relevance in skeletal growth. Already at that time its relationship was seen with alterations in childhood growth and how the deficiency in its secretion or its hypersecretion led to diseases and disorders such as acromegaly. A disorder that causes gigantism.

Which functions has?

Growth hormone is a polypeptide made up of 191 amino acids. It is produced in the pituitary gland and is then released into the bloodstream. It should also be noted that it is a dynamic substance, that is, it fulfills multiple functions and its mechanism of action depends on several factors.

For example, We know that when we reach middle age, its release is reduced. Physical condition and health also impact its correct release. According to the Mayo Clinic we have some functions such as:

Stimulates the postnatal growth of the child.
Mineralizes bones and retains the concentration of calcium in them.
Increases and promotes muscle mass.
Promotes lipolysis (transforming fat into energy). Participates in protein synthesis.
Reduces glucose consumption by the liver.
Take care of the function of the pancreas. Stimulates immune function.
Participates in the general function of homeostasis of the body.

How is this hormone produced?

The production of growth hormone is located, as we have pointed out, in the pituitary gland, as indicated by the United States National Library of Medicine. Now, it is important to note that Its synthesis is controlled by a complex set of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, intestinal tract and pancreas.

It is interesting to know that its release is generated at certain times, especially when we sleep. This production is spectacular during childhood, reaching its peak during puberty, to later decrease after middle age.

Alterations associated with the synthesis, secretion and activity of growth hormone (GH)

Abnormalities of growth hormone (GH) production and secretion are not very common. However, they are almost always associated with genetic problems, causing everything from classic developmental problems to malformations, infections, tumors of the hypothalamic-pituitary region, etc.

On the other hand, One of the best-known diseases associated with excessive secretion of this hormone is acromegaly.. It is characterized by the following dimensions:

It is related to the development of a benign tumor of the secretory gland.
It causes enlargement of the hands and feet.
Gradual changes may also appear in the shape of the face, such as a more prominent jaw, enlargement of the nose and lips.
It is a slow and progressive disease which manifests itself evidently in adulthood. It causes heart problems, diabetes, etc.

Curiosities: therapeutic applications of synthetic growth hormone

Today, we have various drugs that contain somatropin or synthetic growth hormone.. Research work, such as those carried out by Dr. Linn Goldberg of the University of Oregon, indicates that this substance has great benefits and also notable risks. This explains why international drug agencies continually warn about the need to establish surveillance mechanisms for their acquisition.

What is growth hormone (GH) therapy used for?

To treat problems in the development of children. Kidney diseases. Turner syndrome (a developmental problem in girls in which an absent or incomplete X chromosome appears). Prader-Willi syndrome (genetic disorder in which the feeling of hunger is constant). Short bowel syndrome.

In what cases is growth hormone (GH) misused?

It is often sold illegally in gyms to increase endurance and muscle mass. Some athletes believe that this hormone alone does not achieve the desired results, so they supplement it with anabolic steroids. The goal is to increase muscle and physical strength and also reduce body fat. It is also used as an anti-aging therapy.

To conclude, we must keep in mind that the abuse of somatropin or synthetic growth hormone has highly serious adverse effects. This drug can only be prescribed by doctors. Let us, therefore, avoid unnecessary risks.

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