somatotropine

Somatotropin, also known as growth hormone (GH) or somatotropic hormone (STH), is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in growth and metabolism in humans and other vertebrates. Somatotropin is a protein consisting of 191 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 22,124 daltons. Its primary function is to stimulate growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration.

In children and adolescents, somatotropin promotes growth by acting on the liver to stimulate the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 then promotes the growth of bones and cartilage. Somatotropin also influences protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and fat breakdown. It helps to increase muscle mass and bone density.

In adults, somatotropin continues to play a role in maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and energy metabolism. It is also involved in tissue repair and regeneration. The secretion of somatotropin is pulsatile, with the highest levels typically occurring during sleep. Its production is regulated by hormones from the hypothalamus, primarily growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and somatostatin.

Deficiency in somatotropin can lead to dwarfism in children and various metabolic issues in adults. Conversely, excessive production can cause gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults. Synthetic somatotropin is used therapeutically to treat growth hormone deficiency and other related conditions.