Abstract
As a preliminary step to the potential use of growth hormone releasing factor (GRF) in pituitary dwarfism, growth hormone (GH) response to the 1-29 fragment of the GRF molecule (given by Ares-Serono) was studied in 6 normal male volunteers (age 19-23yrs). According to a pre-determined dose-response curve, an iv continuous perfusion (0.1ug/kg/hr) and bolus injections (0.3ug/kg/3hr) i.e. a total dose of 2.4ug/kg, were given over 24 hours in each subject at a week interval. Furthermore, GRF was also injected subcutaneously at 8pm (1.0 or 5.0ug/kg). Plasma GH levels were measured at 20' interval and the results compared to a control period. Food intake and sleep periods were recorded. Continuous GRF perfusion produced an increase in GH pulses (7.8±1.1 vs 4.1±1.0 peaks/day, p<0.001) as well as a constant but not significant rise in peak amplitude. Bolus injections caused GH release in 44/48 injections. This release was particularly marked during night time. Given subcutaneously, GRF caused a moderate rise in GH in 3/4 subjects, using the highest dosage only. In conclusion, GRF(1-29NH2) is effective in increasing GH secretion in normal males without apparent desensitization of the pituitary and with maximal sensitivity and response during night time.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Theintz, G., Tang, Z., Mascarenhas, M. et al. NYCTHEMERAL GH SECRETION IN RESPONSE TO IV CONTINUOUS PERFUSION, BOLUS INJECTIONS OR SUBCUTANEOUS ADMINISTRATION OF GRF (1–29NH2) IN NORMAL MALE VOLUNTEERS. Pediatr Res 23, 120 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198801000-00116
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198801000-00116