Growth Hormone and Its Effects on Growth

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to Growth Hormone, its mechanism, effects, and conditions associated with abnormal levels.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A protein made by the anterior pituitary gland that plays a major role in growth and development.

Hypophysectomy

Removal of the pituitary gland through surgery, which leads to impaired growth in animals.

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

A hormone that mediates the growth effects of Growth Hormone.

Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR)

A receptor located in tissues such as liver, muscle, and fat that binds GH.

Recombinant Porcine GH (rPST)

Genetically engineered Growth Hormone used in pigs to improve growth rates.

Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins (IGFBP)

Proteins that attach to IGFs to control their effects and availability.

Paracrine and Autocrine IGF Actions

Local responses to IGF that have a more significant influence on growth than systemic actions.

Maternal Growth Hormone

Growth Hormone from the mother that does not pass through the placenta.

Acromegaly

A disorder caused by excess Growth Hormone in adults, leading to enlarged body parts.

Gigantism

A condition caused by excess Growth Hormone in children before puberty, resulting in excessive growth.

Primary Effects of GH

GH stimulates skeletal growth, promotes protein synthesis, increases fat utilization, and plays a role in metabolism.

Importance of GH in Growth

Essential for normal growth and development during childhood and teenage years.

GH in Adults

Helps maintain muscle mass and bone density in adults.

Role of IGF-1 in Growth

Mediates GH effects by promoting cell division and growth in various tissues.

IGF-1 Production

Primarily produced in the liver; crucial for puberty growth spurts and metabolism.

Function of IGF-1

Acts on specific cell receptors to influence growth and development.

Use of rPST in Agriculture

Improves growth efficiency and feed conversion in pig farming.

Benefits of rPST

Leads to faster weight gain and better meat quality in pigs.

Economic Impact of rPST

Enhances efficiency in pork production, impacting market supply.

Considerations for rPST

Raises ethical questions regarding animal welfare and consumer attitudes.

Acromegaly Overview

Results from excessive GH levels post-puberty; affects growth of bones and soft tissues.

Symptoms of Acromegaly

Joint pain, thicker skin, and potential chronic diseases are common.

Gigantism Overview

Excess GH before puberty causes extreme growth and height in children.

Gigantism Complications

Can result in serious health issues related to organ function and metabolism.

Management of GH Disorders

Requires medical treatment for both acromegaly and gigantism.

Function of IGFBPs

Control IGF activity and are essential for regulating growth and metabolism.

IGFBP Dysregulation Effects

Linked to growth disorders and can contribute to cancer progression.