Recombinant human Growth Hormone protein (Active)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Growth Hormone (GH) also known as somatotropin is a polypeptide hormone with a mass of approximately 22 kDa. The pituitary gland synthesizes and secretes GH. Once synthesized GH circulates in the bloodstream and affects various tissues throughout the body. GH's expression is tightly regulated because of its significant roles in growth processes. Researchers might use anti-growth hormone antibodies and various hGH testing kits including ELISA to study its levels and functions.

Biological function summary

GH triggers growth and cell reproduction by exerting effects on multiple tissues. It binds to the growth hormone receptor which initiates a cascade of reactions that ultimately stimulates growth in muscle bone and cartilage. GH also contributes to protein synthesis and helps regulate metabolism. GH acts mostly independently but can interact with cytokines and other hormones.

Pathways

GH plays important roles in the regulation of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and the IGF-1 signaling pathway. The JAK-STAT pathway is important for transmitting the signal of GH binding to its receptor into cellular responses. GH stimulates IGF-1 production in the liver and IGF-1 then acts in an endocrine manner to mediate much of GH's growth-promoting activity. These interactions highlight the interconnectedness of GH with other hormones in growth signaling networks.

Several health conditions can arise from abnormal levels of GH. Dwarfism occurs due to GH deficiency while acromegaly results from GH excess. Clinical analysis might use hGH kits to measure hormone levels and aid in diagnosis. GH's role in such conditions links it to other hormones like insulin and glucagon that help regulate glucose levels further affecting metabolic processes. Recombinant forms of GH are used in therapy for these disorders providing avenues for treatment and management.