Growth Hormone

Human growth hormone (hGH) is a hormone that is required for normal human growth and development. It regulates an extensive variety of physiological functions relating to human growth and metabolism, primarily by inducing the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).

The effects of hGH activity include the growth of bone, cartilage, and soft tissues, which occurs maximally during puberty. A deficiency of hGH or a lack of HGHR activation results in short stature while excessive hGH causes acromegaly. Recombinant hGH has been used clinically to treat hGH deficiency or other types of conditions that involve shortness, including Turner syndrome.

1. Tritos NA & Mantzoros CS (1998) Am J Med. 105: 44-57.