In 1921, Herbert Evans and Joseph Long isolated a substance from the anterior pituitary that stimulated growth in rats. By the 1950s, somatotropin had been purified, and its role in human growth and development was recognized. The hormone, a polypeptide consisting of 191 amino acids, plays a critical role in regulating growth, metabolism, and body composition.
Somatotropin is used to treat growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children, a condition that results in stunted growth and development. Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy helps children with GHD achieve normal growth rates, improve muscle mass, and enhance overall physical development. It is also used to treat other growth-related conditions such as Turner syndrome, chronic kidney disease, and Prader-Willi syndrome.
In adults, somatotropin is prescribed for growth hormone deficiency, which can lead to decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and diminished quality of life.
Somatotropin is used in the management of muscle-wasting conditions, such as HIV/AIDS-related wasting and short bowel syndrome. The hormone helps maintain lean body mass, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance overall energy levels in affected patients.
Though controversial and not widely approved for these purposes, somatotropin is sometimes used off-label for its potential anti-aging effects and to enhance athletic performance. It is believed to improve muscle mass, reduce fat, and increase energy levels.
In livestock farming, somatotropin is used to increase milk production in dairy cows through bovine somatotropin (bST) injections. This application helps improve milk yield and farm profitability.
Somatotropin can be used in rehabilitation medicine to aid in the recovery from severe burns, major surgeries, and traumatic injuries. Its ability to promote tissue repair and muscle growth can accelerate the healing process and improve outcomes for patients undergoing intensive rehabilitation.
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