Growth Hormones Flashcards
GROWTH HORMONE
• A.k.a.
Somatotropin
GH
• Synthesized, stored, and secreted by the
somatotrophs
Growth hormone (GH) is produced, stored, and released by______ in the anterior pituitary gland.
It plays a crucial role in promoting the growth of _____in children, which helps them grow taller.
Unlike some hormones, GH is secreted in a_____ manner, meaning it is released in bursts rather than continuously.
Somatotrophs
long bones
pulsatile
The highest levels of GH secretion occur during_______, supporting rapid growth, but its levels gradually decline as a person ages.
puberty
GROWTH HORMONE FUNCTIONS
• Increases rate of protein synthesis in all body cells
• Increases mobilization and use of fatty acids from adipose tissue for energy
• Decreases rate of glucose utilization throughout the body (i.e. enhances body protein, uses up fat stores, and conserves CHO)
: GH stimulates the production of proteins in all body cells, enhancing tissue growth and repair.
This is especially important for muscle development, as it promotes an increase in muscle mass and strength.
Increases Rate of Protein Synthesis
: GH promotes the breakdown of stored fat (adipose tissue) into fatty acids, which are then used as a source of energy.
This process helps reduce body fat and provides an alternative energy source, especially during times of fasting or increased physical activity.
Mobilizes and Uses Fatty Acids for Energy
: GH reduces the amount of glucose used by the body, allowing it to conserve carbohydrates (CHO) for essential functions.
By decreasing glucose uptake in tissues, GH enhances protein production and encourages the use of fat stores for energy. This helps to maintain blood glucose levels, supporting overall metabolic health.
Decreases Glucose Utilization
The hypothalamus produces______, which stimulates the _____to secrete____.
Which targets tissues such as the (3)
It also produces_____, which inhibits GH release.
growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)
anterior pituitary
GH
Liver, bones, and fats
somatostatin
Feedback Regulation: Elevated levels of_______ provide negative feedback to the pituitary gland, reducing the secretion of growth hormone, thereby helping to maintain balance in the growth hormone axis.
somatomedins
Regulating Metabolism:_____ have insulin-like effects, helping to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, and promoting the utilization of fats for energy.
Somatomedins
______, aka_______, are produced mainly by the liver in response to stimulation by GH.
Somatomedins insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
Sequential Action: GH stimulates the liver and other tissues to produce_______. This means that the effects of GH are often mediated through the actions of this.
Feedback Mechanism: Elevated levels of_______ provide negative feedback to the pituitary gland, inhibiting further secretion of GH. This feedback loop helps maintain hormonal balance and ensures that growth and metabolic processes are appropriately regulated.
somatomedins, particularly IGF-1
somatomedins
inhibits the release of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland, helping to regulate growth hormone levels in the body.
Somatostatin Release-Inhibiting Factor
Stimulation of GH Release:
GH release is increased by factors such as
deep sleep, stress, fasting, and the presence of amino acids. Hormones like ghrelin, sex steroids (e.g., estrogen and testosterone), and acetylcholine also promote GH secretion, helping support growth and metabolic functions.
Suppression of GH Release:
GH release is decreased by
obesity, high free fatty acids (FFA), and glucocorticoids (like cortisol). Elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) and high levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) provide negative feedback to reduce GH secretion.
Inhibition of GH Effects:
GH effects can be inhibited by conditions such as
undernutrition, acute and chronic illnesses, and deficiencies in GH receptors or IGF-1 receptors. These factors can limit the body’s ability to respond to GH, impairing growth and metabolic processes.