GH Secretagogues are a class of compounds that act to stimulate the pituitary gland to release Growth Hormone into the circulation. Unlike Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone analogues, which act directly on the GHRH receptor, GHS compounds often act via the ghrelin receptor. These agents are utilized to enhance endogenous GH pulsatility, which can support body composition, cellular repair, and overall metabolic function.
Origin
The discovery of the first synthetic GHS, GHRP-6, in the 1980s marked the beginning of this therapeutic class, following the earlier identification of the natural ligand ghrelin. The development of these agents was driven by the desire for non-GHRH-based methods to boost GH levels, particularly for treating GH deficiency or age-related decline. The term refers to any substance that promotes secretion.
Mechanism
GHS primarily exert their effect by binding to and activating the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor (GHSR-1a), which is located in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Activation of this receptor leads to a calcium-dependent release of GH from the somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary. Importantly, many GHS also suppress the inhibitory action of somatostatin, further amplifying the overall secretory pulse of Growth Hormone.
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