Biological effects of GH

GH primarily displays an anabolic activity. It partially stimulates the growth of bone, muscle and cartilage cells directly. Binding of GH to its hepatic receptor results in the synthesis and release of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which mediates most of GH s growth-promoting activity on, for example, bone and skeletal muscle (Chapter 7). The major effeets mediated by hGH are summarized in Table 8.6. 

Increased body growth (particularly bone and skeletal muscle) 

Stimulation of protein synthesis in many tissues Mobilization of depot lipids from adipose tissue (lipol5dic effect) 

Elevation of blood glucose levels (anti-insulin effect) 

Increased kidney size and enhanced renal function 

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