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Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Somatotropic Axis

Meaning

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Somatotropic Axis (HPSA) is the specific neuroendocrine pathway dedicated to regulating growth, anabolism, and metabolic homeostasis through the secretion of Growth Hormone (GH). This axis involves the hypothalamus releasing GHRH, which stimulates the anterior pituitary somatotrophs to release GH into the circulation. Understanding this tripartite system is central to diagnosing growth disorders in pediatric populations and assessing anabolic capacity in adults. It functions as a cornerstone of metabolic regulation.