What is the Origin of GH Peptide Therapy?

The development of GH peptide therapy is rooted in the foundational discoveries of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and the identification of the natural secretagogues, GHRH and ghrelin. This therapeutic strategy emerged in the late 20th century as researchers sought safer and more nuanced methods of modulating the somatotropic axis compared to traditional recombinant human GH administration. The term reflects the use of small amino acid chains to influence a larger endocrine cascade.

What is the Mechanism of GH Peptide Therapy?

GHRH analogues, like sermorelin, bind to the GHRH receptor on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, directly promoting the synthesis and release of GH. GHSs, such as ghrelin mimetics, bind to the ghrelin receptor (GHSR), stimulating GH release primarily through both hypothalamic and pituitary effects. This orchestrated action enhances the natural amplitude and frequency of GH pulses, leading to increased systemic levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) and subsequent anabolic and metabolic benefits throughout the body.

GH Peptide Therapy

Meaning

GH Peptide Therapy is a specialized clinical intervention that employs synthetic peptides, such as Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) analogues or Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHSs), to safely and physiologically stimulate the pituitary gland’s own production and pulsatile release of Growth Hormone (GH). This approach is distinct from direct GH replacement, as it aims to restore a more natural, endogenous pattern of hormone secretion. It is utilized in clinical practice to address conditions associated with age-related GH decline, improve body composition, and support tissue repair and recovery.