Can growth hormone (GH) accelerate aging? Evidence from GH-transgenic mice.

Authors: Bartke A

Abstract: Overexpression of heterologous growth hormone (GH) in transgenic mice results in numerous phenotypic effects, including a drastically shortened life span. Early onset of pathological changes in the kidneys, glomerulosclerosis and glomerulonephritis, undoubtedly contributes to and perhaps accounts for reduced longevity of these animals. However, GH-transgenic mice exhibit various symptoms of accelerated aging, including increased astrogliosis, shortened reproductive life span, and early onset of age-related changes in cognitive function, hypothalamic neurotransmitter turnover, and plasma corticosterone levels. The hypothesis that supraphysiological levels of GH can accelerate aging derives indirect support from findings in GH-deficient and GH-resistant mutant mice in which aging is delayed and the life-span is increased and from the reciprocal relationship of body size and longevity within species.

Keywords: Aging/*physiology; Animals; Body Constitution; Body Weight; Female; Growth Hormone/genetics/*physiology; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System; Longevity/*physiology; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred Strains; Mice, Knockout; *Mice, Transgenic; *Models, Animal; Organ Size; Pituitary-Adrenal System; Reproduction
Journal: Neuroendocrinology
Volume: 78
Issue: 4
Pages: 210-6
Date: Oct. 30, 2003
PMID: 14583653
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Citation:

Bartke A (2003) Can growth hormone (GH) accelerate aging? Evidence from GH-transgenic mice. Neuroendocrinology 78: 210-6.


Study Lifespan Factors:
  • GH1 Growth hormone 1


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