Page 4 - Module 1-Anatomy and Physiology of Growth Hormone Function Final (Interactive)

Module 1: Anatomy and Physiology of Growth Hormone

In this module, you will encounter words or short phrases that are bolded. These are
glossary terms. Click on the term and you will go directly to the glossary section
where you can see the definition. Before you click on a term, note the page you are
on so you can return to that page when you are done. In this module, you will also
find callouts that provide additional insights into the topic.

Learning Objectives

By completing this module, you will have a better understanding of:

• The anatomy of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland
• The hormones produced by the anterior pituitary gland
• The secretion, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of growth hormone
• The functions and physiological effects of insulin-like growth factor

• The metabolic effects of growth hormone
• Growth hormone signaling pathways

Introduction

Growth hormone (GH) is essential for normal growth, metabolism, and development
in children, especially for linear bone growth. It regulates lipid, protein, and glucose
metabolism.

Under normal physiological conditions, GH is secreted in approximately eight peaks
each day, with low basal levels in between these pulses. Children with GH deficiency
(GHD) grow at a slower rate than other children their same age. GHD, whether
present at birth or due to brain injury or a structural defect in the brain, results in
subnormal levels of GH and impaired growth. Acquired GHD in children may be
caused by intracranial lesions such as brain tumors.

The focus of this module is on growth in children with
GHD and includes how GH affects the regulation of
bone growth, density, and muscle mass, and improves
cognition and overall quality of life. In addition,
deficiency of GH can lead to a decrease in bone
density, diminished muscle mass, increased fat mass,
and abnormal lipid levels. Children with GHD may
experience psychosocial challenges such as low self-
esteem, disability due to short stature, depression,
anxiety, cognitive impairment and psychological
distress from bullying. Growth hormone
To understand GHD and its treatment completely, it is
necessary to learn about the endocrine system, which is responsible for the
production and release of GH; the physiological effects of GH; and the biological
impact of GHD, especially in children. This module will provide you with the
fundamentals of the anatomy and physiology of growth, as well as a firm foundation
for building a comprehensive understanding of the GHD disease state and GHD
treatment.

4