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PHYSIOLOGIC regulation of GH secretion has been an active subject of investigation recently. In particular, the interaction with, and independent functions of, the sex steroid hormones and GH have been the subjects of a large number of studies, both in the basic sciences and in the clinical arena. Based on the results of multiple clinical studies, it has been observed that GH secretion is amplified in the presence of gonadal steroid hormones. During the course of male and female puberty, either normal, precocious, or pharmacologically induced, spontaneously circulating GH levels increase via an amplitude- modulated phenomenon. Using recently available mathematical modeling techniques, it has been possible to demonstrate that the mechanism of this increase is via sex steroid hormone-induced amplification of endogenous GH production rate, without demonstrable alterations of the frequency of secretory episodes or of hormone half-life. We intend to review what is understood about this relationship between the sex steroid hormones and GH in man with particular emphasis on clinical studies in the pediatric and adolescent age groups. A comprehensive review of the basic aspects of gonadal steroid hormone impact on GH physiology is provided by Wehrenberg and Giustina (1) in an accompanying paper. To provide a framework upon which to build this focused topic, we will first review the normal physiology of GH. Following this discussion, we will present the available data describing the ontogeny of GH secretion as it relates to concomitant changes in endogenous sex steroid hormone levels. Finally, the impact of exogenously administered gonadal steroid hormones on GH secretion will be discussed.
Kerrigan et al. (Fri,) studied this question.