Hypothalamic–pituitary–somatotropic axis (HPS axis)

The somatotropic axis is a hormonal signaling pathway connecting the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, and peripheral tissues. It primarily controls the production and effects of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). GH is secreted by somatotropes in the pituitary gland in response to hypothalamic signals (growth hormone-releasing hormone and somatostatin), enters circulation, and promotes IGF-1 synthesis in tissues, mainly the liver. IGF-1 acts systemically to modulate growth, metabolism, tissue repair, and aging. Dysfunction of this axis can contribute to growth abnormalities, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and aging-related conditions.

Other names

Hypothalamic–pituitary–growth axisHypothalamic–pituitary–somatic axisGH–IGF axisGrowth hormone/IGF-1 axis

Mechanisms pertain to targeting receptors or hormone signaling within the axis: Agonism/antagonism of GH and IGF-1 receptors; Modulation of GH secretion via GHRH or somatostatin pathways.