What is the Origin of Growth Hormone Secretion?

The term combines the physiological process of secretion (from Latin secretio, separation) with Growth Hormone, which was named for its observed effect on somatic growth. The discovery of its regulation by the hypothalamus, specifically through Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) and Somatostatin (SRIF), defined the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Somatic Axis. Understanding this pulsatile release is key to clinical assessment and therapeutic strategies.

What is the Mechanism of Growth Hormone Secretion?

GH secretion is primarily regulated by the hypothalamus, which releases GHRH to stimulate GH release and Somatostatin to inhibit it. The hormone is released in discrete pulses, with the largest and most significant pulse typically occurring during deep sleep. Once secreted, GH acts directly on target tissues and indirectly by stimulating the liver to produce Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), which mediates many of GH's anabolic effects on bone and muscle.

Growth Hormone Secretion

Meaning

Growth Hormone Secretion is the pulsatile release of Somatotropin, or Growth Hormone (GH), a peptide hormone produced and secreted by the somatotropic cells of the anterior pituitary gland. This vital endocrine process is responsible for stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration, particularly during childhood and adolescence, but continues to play a critical metabolic role throughout adult life. Its secretion patterns are essential for maintaining lean body mass, bone density, and optimal lipid metabolism.