What is the Origin of HGH Decline?

This term originates from clinical endocrinology and gerontology, following the recognition that HGH secretion patterns change predictably after young adulthood. HGH is an abbreviation for Human Growth Hormone, and decline refers to the quantitative reduction in its output. The term Somatopause specifically links this decline to the aging process, paralleling terms like menopause and andropause.

What is the Mechanism of HGH Decline?

The primary mechanism involves changes in the hypothalamic regulation of HGH, specifically a reduction in the release of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) and an increase in the inhibitory tone of somatostatin. This altered neuroendocrine signaling diminishes the pituitary's capacity to release HGH. Since HGH is critical for stimulating IGF-1 production in the liver, the systemic reduction in HGH leads to a cascade of downstream effects, impairing cellular repair, protein synthesis, and metabolic regulation.

HGH Decline ∞ Area

HGH Decline

Meaning

HGH decline, or Somatopause, describes the physiological and progressive reduction in the pulsatile secretion of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) by the anterior pituitary gland that occurs naturally with chronological aging. This decline is characterized by a decrease in both the amplitude and frequency of HGH secretory pulses, leading to a subsequent reduction in circulating Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. Clinically, this hormonal shift contributes to various age-related changes, including altered body composition, reduced bone density, and changes in skin structure.