What is the Origin of Somatotropin Function?

The term is derived from the Greek words soma (body) and tropos (turning or change), directly indicating its role in physical growth and change. Clinical study of its function intensified with the ability to measure and replace the hormone.

What is the Mechanism of Somatotropin Function?

Somatotropin acts both directly on target tissues and indirectly by stimulating the liver and other tissues to produce Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). Direct actions include stimulating lipolysis and inhibiting insulin action, while the IGF-1 mediated effects promote protein synthesis and cell proliferation. The pulsatile release pattern of GH is key to its physiological function and is regulated by Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone and somatostatin.

Somatotropin Function

Meaning

Somatotropin function refers to the diverse physiological roles of Growth Hormone (GH), a peptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary function is to promote somatic growth during childhood and adolescence, but throughout adulthood, it is crucial for regulating body composition, metabolism, bone density, and muscle mass. Optimal somatotropin function is essential for metabolic and tissue homeostasis.