The role of sex steroids in controlling pubertal growth

Perry, R.J., Farquharson, C. and Ahmed, S. (2008) The role of sex steroids in controlling pubertal growth. Clinical Endocrinology, 68(1), pp. 4-15. (doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2007.02960.x)

Abstract

Longitudinal growth, which is primarily due to chondrocytic activity at the level of the epiphyseal growth plate, is influenced by many hormones and growth factors in an endocrine and paracrine manner. Their influence is even more complex during the accelerated growth period of puberty that accounts for about 20% of final adult height. Although abnormalities of growth during puberty are very common, the underlying mechanisms that govern the beginning and cessation of pubertal growth at the level of the growth plate are poorly understood. Sex steroids play a crucial role in pubertal growth both at the systemic level via the GH/IGF-1 axis and at the local level of the epiphyseal growth plate. In both sexes it is now accepted that oestrogen is the critical hormone in controlling growth plate acceleration and fusion. This paper reviews the mechanisms that influence pubertal growth and the problems that are associated with disorders of gonadal function.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Ahmed, Professor Syed Faisal and Perry, Dr Rebecca
• Authors: Perry, R.J., Farquharson, C., and Ahmed, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
• Journal Name: Clinical Endocrinology
• Publisher: Society for Endocrinology
• ISSN: 0300-0664
• ISSN (Online): 1365-2265
• Published Online: 11 June 2007
• First Published: First published in Clinical Endocrinology 2008 68 (1): 4-15
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher