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Estrogen & GH
In collaboration with the Sex Hormone Biology group at PHI, we examined somatotrope cell function in aromatase knock out mouse (ArKO). Aromatase is the enzyme that converts androgens to estrogens. Deficiency in this enzyme results in a lack of estrogen. This unique model helps us to examine the role of estrogen in the regulation of GH. The literature provides controversial data on the relationship between estrogen and GH. The ArKO mouse model sheds light on this confusion. Estrogen levels change throughout the developing female and may influence GH levels, thus a key factor in women's health. We found that GH, GHRH receptor, and GHS receptor synthesis in pituitary somatotropes from ArKO mice were significantly decreased and the replacement of estrogen therapy reversed such a decline. We also discovered a decrease in the expression of three genes in elderly, which was also partially recovered by estrogen replacement. Currently, we are extending our research to different age groups and different treatment conditions.
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