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Anterior pituitary function and growth hormone use in the elderly
1Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA.
Summary
Aging reduces growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) secretion, impacting body composition and function. Therapeutic strategies targeting these factors may improve elderly health, but require further clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
- Metabolic research
Background:
- Age-related decline in growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) secretion impacts body composition.
- These changes include decreased lean mass, increased adiposity, reduced bone density, and higher cardiovascular risk.
- Adverse effects on functional capacity are associated with these age-related hormonal changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of therapeutic strategies involving GH, GHRH, GHRP, and other trophic factors.
- To investigate the efficacy of these factors in improving the functional status of frail elderly individuals.
- To assess the potential benefits of human GH (hGH) in elderly patients experiencing catabolic states.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on age-related changes in GH and IGF-I.
- Analysis of the proposed therapeutic mechanisms of hGH, GHRH, GHRP, and related factors.
- Consideration of the anabolic effects, such as nitrogen retention, of hGH.
Main Results:
- GH and IGF-I secretion decrease with age in both sexes.
- These hormonal changes contribute to adverse body composition and functional capacity.
- Trophic factors show promise for therapeutic intervention in the elderly.
Conclusions:
- Therapeutic strategies targeting GH and IGF-I pathways may improve functional capacity in the elderly.
- hGH has potential anabolic benefits for elderly patients in catabolic states.
- Rigorous, long-term clinical trials with specific targeting criteria are essential to determine efficacy and benefits.