Vaxtarhormón

Vaxtarhormón, also known as growth hormone (GH) or somatotropin, is a peptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary role is to stimulate growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans and other animals. In children, it is essential for reaching their full adult height. In adults, it plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy body composition, muscle mass, bone density, and metabolic function.

The release of growth hormone is regulated by two hormones from the hypothalamus: growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), which stimulates its secretion, and somatostatin, which inhibits it. Sleep, exercise, stress, and low blood glucose levels can also influence its release.

Deficiency in growth hormone can lead to stunted growth in children and various metabolic issues in adults. Conversely, excessive production, often due to pituitary tumors, can result in gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults, characterized by enlarged hands, feet, and facial features. Synthetic growth hormone is used medically to treat growth deficiencies and other specific conditions.