What is the Origin of Selective Growth Hormone Release?

This term is derived from clinical pharmacology and endocrinology, specifically the study and development of Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHSs). "Selective" highlights the desired specificity of the therapeutic intervention on the pituitary axis.

What is the Mechanism of Selective Growth Hormone Release?

The mechanism involves compounds that mimic the action of endogenous Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) or ghrelin, binding to their respective receptors (GHRHR or GHSR-1a) on the anterior pituitary somatotrophs. This binding triggers an intracellular calcium influx and cyclic AMP production, which potently stimulates the exocytosis of stored GH vesicles, leading to a controlled, pulsatile release.

Selective Growth Hormone Release ∞ Area

Selective Growth Hormone Release

Meaning

Selective Growth Hormone Release refers to the targeted stimulation of the pituitary gland to secrete Growth Hormone (GH) while minimizing the co-release of other pituitary hormones, such as Prolactin or Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH). This precise neuroendocrine action is achieved through the use of specific secretagogues that interact selectively with G-protein coupled receptors on somatotroph cells. The goal is to maximize the anabolic and lipolytic benefits of GH with a favorable side effect profile.