Evaluation of pulsatile plasma concentrations of growth hormone in healthy dogs and dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Results did not provide evidence for an association between DCM in dogs and a reduction in plasma concentrations of GH or IGF-I. Therefore, reported positive effects of GH administration are most likely attributable to local effects in the heart.

Disorders of Growth Hormone

“…The number of GH pulses demonstrated in healthy dogs differs slightly between studies: 1 to 3 pulses/6 h, 1 pulse/4.5 h, 2 to 7 pulses/12 h (Cowan et al, 1984;French et al, 1987;Beijerink et al, 2011). The pulses are mainly induced by the effect of GH-releasing hormone (GHRH), whereas the intervening troughs are primarily generated by somatostatin .…”