Abstract
Growth hormone (GH) exerts multiple effects on different organs including the kidneys, either directly or via its main mediator, insulin-like-growth factor-1 (IGF-1). The GH/IGF1 system plays a key role in normal kidney development, glomerular hemodynamic regulation, as well as tubular water, sodium, phosphate, and calcium handling. Transgenic animal models demonstrated that GH excess (and not IGF1) may lead to hyperfiltration, albuminuria, and glomerulosclerosis. GH and IGF-1 play a significant role in the early development of diabetic nephropathy, as well as in compensatory kidney hypertrophy after unilateral nephrectomy. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its complications in children are associated with alterations in the GH/IGF1 axis, including growth retardation, related to a GH-resistant state, attributed to impaired kidney postreceptor GH-signaling and chronic inflammation. This may explain the safety of prolonged rhGH-treatment of short stature in CKD.
Highlights
Most animals must undergo a transition from maternal environment to independent life through processes of growth and maturation
Its main actions become apparent in pathophysiologic situations of growth hormone (GH) excess or deficiency, and the pathophysiological pathways behind these clinical observations were clarified with the development of transgenic and knockout animal models
They participate in pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy, as well as in compensatory kidney hypertrophy after unilateral nephrectomy
Summary
Most animals must undergo a transition from maternal environment to independent life through processes of growth and maturation. Important hormonal regulators of childhood growth are growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), sex steroids, and thyroid hormone. GH and IGF1 are part of an axis, which is essential for bone and organs growth. The kidneys express both GH as well as IGF1 receptors, and are one of the key target organs for these hormones’ actions. This review concentrated on the roles of these hormones in physiological and pathological kidney conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
