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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
09:09
Protocol for Assessing the Relative Effects of Environment and Genetics on Antler and Body Growth for a Long-lived Cervid
Published on: August 8, 2017
ASAS centennial paper: animal growth and development research: historical perspectives
1Department of Dairy and Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, PA, USA. tde@psu.edu
Journal of Animal Science
|May 26, 2009
Summary
Since 1905, scientists have advanced animal growth regulation through hormone discovery and application. This review covers key hormones, their mechanisms, and their use in livestock production.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- The field of endocrinology traces its roots to the introduction of the word "hormone" in 1905.
- Scientific advancements have since focused on the endocrine regulation of animal growth.
Observation:
- Numerous scientists globally have contributed to understanding hormone-based growth enhancement in livestock.
- Key discoveries include somatotropin (ST) and beta-adrenergic agonists.
Findings:
- Hormones like ST and beta-adrenergic agonists play crucial roles in regulating livestock growth and nutrient partitioning.
- The mechanisms of action for these growth-regulating hormones have been elucidated.
Implications:
- The scientific evidence base has led to commercial products that improve growth and carcass composition in meat animals.
- Understanding endocrine regulation offers continued opportunities for optimizing animal agriculture.
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