What is the Origin of GH-IGF-1-Insulin Axis?

This is a descriptive clinical term synthesizing three key hormonal components and the concept of an axis, which denotes a hierarchical system of hormonal control. Its understanding emerged from decades of endocrinology research that mapped the sequential actions of growth hormone and its downstream mediator, IGF-1, and recognized the synergistic role of insulin in promoting anabolism and nutrient utilization.

What is the Mechanism of GH-IGF-1-Insulin Axis?

The axis operates sequentially: Growth Hormone is released and stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which then mediates many of GH's growth-promoting effects on bone and muscle. Insulin, while primarily regulating blood glucose, synergizes with IGF-1 to promote the uptake of nutrients and stimulate protein synthesis in target tissues. The interplay between these three hormones is tightly regulated by nutrient availability and negative feedback loops to maintain metabolic and growth homeostasis.

GH-IGF-1-Insulin Axis

Meaning

The GH-IGF-1-Insulin Axis represents a critical, integrated endocrine network that governs somatic growth, cellular metabolism, and tissue maintenance throughout the lifespan. It links Growth Hormone (GH) from the pituitary, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) primarily from the liver, and Insulin from the pancreas. This axis is central to understanding anabolic processes, nutrient partitioning, and the physiological changes associated with aging.