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.
Bartke
Andrzej
A
Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 19628, Springfield, IL 62794-9628, USA. abartke@siumed.edu
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