What is the Origin of GHS-R Agonism?

The term is derived from 'GHS-R,' the acronym for Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor, and 'agonism,' a pharmacological term meaning a substance that initiates a physiological response when combined with a receptor. It is central to the study of growth hormone regulation. This area of research is relevant to sarcopenia and metabolic health in aging.

What is the Mechanism of GHS-R Agonism?

GHS-R agonists mimic the action of the endogenous ligand, ghrelin, by binding to the GHS-R predominantly located on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary. Receptor activation triggers an intracellular signaling cascade, often involving the phospholipase C pathway, leading to the rapid exocytosis and release of stored growth hormone. This mechanism bypasses the typical hypothalamic-pituitary feedback loop, offering a direct means to modulate the somatotropic axis.

GHS-R Agonism ∞ Area

GHS-R Agonism

Meaning

The specific pharmacological action of a compound that binds to and activates the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor (GHS-R), also known as the ghrelin receptor. Activation of this receptor typically stimulates the release of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. This targeted agonism is clinically utilized to influence body composition, metabolic rate, and aspects of vitality and recovery.