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Growth hormone and the heart.
A Cittadini1, S Longobardi, S Fazio
1Department of Internal Medicine, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Mineral and Electrolyte Metabolism
|April 20, 1999
Summary
Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) impact heart function. Research shows GH offers direct and indirect cardiovascular benefits, suggesting potential for heart failure treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Endocrinology
- Heart Failure Pathophysiology
Background:
- Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were traditionally linked to linear growth and metabolism.
- Emerging evidence identifies the heart as a direct target organ for the GH/IGF-1 axis.
- Cardiovascular actions of GH are both direct and indirect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cardiovascular effects of GH and IGF-1.
- To explore the potential therapeutic role of GH in heart failure management.
Main Methods:
- Review of animal studies and preliminary human trials on GH and heart function.
- Analysis of direct and indirect cardiovascular mechanisms of GH action.
Main Results:
- Direct GH effects include cardiac tissue growth, enhanced contractility, improved energetics, and mechanical efficiency.
- Indirect GH effects encompass decreased peripheral vascular resistance (PVR), expanded blood volume, and improved skeletal muscle performance.
- GH's actions align with potential benefits for heart failure characterized by ventricular dilation and increased PVR.
Conclusions:
- GH exhibits significant direct and indirect cardiovascular effects.
- GH demonstrates promise as a therapeutic agent for heart failure.
- Larger placebo-controlled human studies are warranted to confirm efficacy.