The somatotropic axis and aging: mechanisms and persistent questions about practical implications.
Reduced somatotropic (GH/IGF-1) signaling delays aging and extends longevity in laboratory mice. However, it is unclear whether the physiological decrease of GH and IGF-1 levels with age represents a symptom of declining neuroendocrine function, a cause of age-related alterations in body composition and functionality or a protective mechanism against age-associated disease. Although available clinical evidence does not support the use of recombinant GH as an anti-aging therapy, many studies suggest the potential utility of GH and GH secretagogues in the treatment of sarcopenia and frailty.
Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 19628, Springfield, IL 62794-9628, USA. abartke@siumed.edu
Andrzej
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Bartke
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000502:physiology; D019382:Human Growth Hormone / Q000502:physiology*; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / Q000502:physiology; D008136:Longevity / Q000502:physiology; D051379:Mice; D055948:Sarcopenia / Q000503:physiopathology
D019382:Human Growth Hormone; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I; D013006:Growth Hormone