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Somatopause Biomarkers

Meaning

Somatopause biomarkers are a set of measurable biochemical indicators used to assess the age-related decline in the function of the somatotropic axis, which is the system responsible for producing and regulating growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). The somatopause is characterized by reduced pulsatile GH secretion and subsequent lower IGF-1 levels, leading to changes in body composition, energy metabolism, and tissue repair capacity. Key biomarkers include serum IGF-1, IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), and sometimes specific GH stimulation tests. These markers provide a quantitative measure of this significant endocrine aging process.