Growth hormone 2 (GH2)

Growth hormone 2 (GH2), also known as the growth hormone variant or placental growth hormone, is a hormone of the somatotropin/prolactin family encoded by the GH2 gene on human chromosome 17[1][2]. Unlike the pituitary growth hormone (GH1), GH2 is produced and secreted by the placenta during pregnancy, becoming the predominant GH form in the maternal circulation at that time[1]. GH2 primarily regulates fetal growth by stimulating the liver and other tissues to produce IGF1, enhances protein synthesis, amino acid uptake, and supports cellular proliferation, particularly in muscle progenitor cells (myoblasts)[2]. Mutations in the GH2 gene are linked to deficiencies in placental growth hormone and associated growth disorders[2][1]. GH2’s functional profile closely resembles GH1 in somatogenic activity, but it displays reduced lactogenic activity[2]. While not currently a direct therapeutic target for approved drugs, GH2’s modulation is of interest in research concerning fetal growth and placental function[6].

Other names

Growth hormone variantGH-VGHVGHLhGH-VPlacenta-specific growth hormoneplacental-specific growth hormonegrowth hormone B2SOM2

Modulation of growth factor signaling (primarily IGF1 axis), Stimulation of cell proliferation, Modulation by gene expression regulators or inhibitors[2][6].