Growth hormone

Growth hormone in research

Human growth hormone (HGH, or somatotropin) is a protein of 191 amino acids secreted by the pituitary gland. It is involved in growth, protein and fat metabolism, and body composition. The recombinant version, produced by biotechnology, is identical to the natural hormone.

Act on the hormone, or on the signal that triggers it

Two approaches coexist in this category. The first consists of directly providing recombinant growth hormone, a protein of 191 amino acids identical to that produced by the pituitary gland. The second uses a GHRH analogue, such as tesamorelin, which acts one level higher: it stimulates the pituitary gland, which then releases its own hormone.

The difference is not theoretical. Direct intake bypasses the body's regulatory mechanisms and produces a continuous rate. Upstream stimulation remains subject to natural brakes and preserves the pulsatile nature of physiological secretion. This explains why the two approaches are studied separately.

A regulatory status to know

Both growth hormone and GHRH analogues are on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned list, permanently and not just in competition. The vials sold here are research products, without marketing authorization, and are not intended for human or animal consumption.

Products intended exclusively for scientific laboratory research. Not intended for human or animal consumption.