What is the Origin of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue?

The term combines 'Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone', which describes the natural peptide, with 'analogue', signifying a compound similar in structure but not identical, and 'hormone', derived from the Greek 'hormaein' (to set in motion). The synthesis of these analogues followed the structural elucidation of native GHRH, allowing for the creation of pharmacologically superior molecules. This development provides a more nuanced approach to GH axis modulation than direct GH administration.

What is the Mechanism of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue?

The analogue binds specifically to the GHRH receptor (GHRHR) on the somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary, a G-protein coupled receptor. Receptor activation initiates the cAMP signaling pathway, leading to the mobilization of intracellular calcium stores and an increase in the transcription of the GH gene. This cascade culminates in the exocytosis and secretion of stored GH into the bloodstream, thereby promoting systemic effects mediated by Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1).

Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue

Meaning

A Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue is a synthetic compound chemically similar to the naturally occurring hypothalamic hormone, Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH), designed to bind to and activate the GHRH receptor in the pituitary gland. These analogues are developed to possess enhanced stability, prolonged duration of action, or increased potency compared to the native peptide. Clinically, they are used to stimulate the pulsatile and physiological release of endogenous Growth Hormone (GH) for the treatment of adult GH deficiency.