What is the function of the growth hormone secreted by the pituitary gland? 

Key Points

• The growth hormone, also known as somatotropin, is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
• Its primary function is to stimulate growth in all organs and tissues of the body, including bones and muscles.
• It plays a crucial role in the regulation of body composition, body fluids, muscle and bone growth, sugar and fat metabolism, and possibly heart function.
• Growth hormone stimulates the liver to produce an insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which is a key player in muscle growth and repair.
• The hormone is most active during childhood and adolescence, which are critical periods for growth and development.

 Additional Information

• It regulates the blood sugar level
  • The regulation of blood sugar levels is primarily controlled by hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are secreted by the pancreas.
  • While growth hormone does have some influence on metabolism, its direct role in blood sugar regulation is limited compared to insulin.
• It regulates the menstrual cycle
  • The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interaction of hormones including estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
  • These hormones are primarily produced by the ovaries and the pituitary gland, but the growth hormone does not play a direct role in this process.
• It regulates metabolism for body growth
  • While growth hormone does influence metabolism, its primary function is to stimulate growth in all organs rather than solely regulating metabolism.
  • Other hormones like thyroid hormones, insulin, and adrenal hormones also play significant roles in regulating metabolism.