GROWTH HORMONES Meaning and
Definition
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Growth hormones, also known as somatotropin or simply GH, refer to a group of hormones produced by the pituitary gland in the brain that regulate the growth and development of the body. These hormones play a vital role in stimulating the growth of bones, muscles, organs, and other tissues. Growth hormones are primarily responsible for promoting physical growth and development during childhood and adolescence, but they continue to have important functions in adulthood as well.
Secretion of growth hormones is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that releases growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). GHRH stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormones into the bloodstream. In turn, these growth hormones target various tissues in the body, triggering the release of insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), particularly IGF-1. IGF-1 is responsible for many of the growth-promoting effects of growth hormones.
Deficiencies or excesses in growth hormone production can lead to medical conditions with varying effects. Insufficient growth hormone levels in children can result in growth retardation and shorter stature, while excess production can cause gigantism or acromegaly. In adults, growth hormone imbalances can contribute to reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased bone density, and overall unhealthy aging.
Synthetic forms of growth hormones have been developed for therapeutic use, typically in cases of growth hormone deficiency. They can be used to treat children with stunted growth or adults with growth hormone deficiencies due to medical conditions. Additionally, growth hormones have gained popularity in some sports and performance-enhancing practices, although their use in these contexts is widely considered unethical and illegal.
Common Misspellings for GROWTH HORMONES
- Groth hormones
- Groeth hormones
- Growht hormones
- Groweth hormones
- Growe hormones
- Groht hormones
- Growth hormomes
- Grwoth hormones
- Growtth hormones
- Growwth hormones
Etymology of GROWTH HORMONES
The term "growth hormone" has a straightforward etymology. The word "growth" originates from the Old English word "growan", which means "to grow" or "increase in size". "Hormone", on the other hand, comes from the Greek word "hormon", meaning "that which sets in motion" or "that which excites". When combined, "growth hormone" refers to a substance that stimulates growth and development in living organisms.
