Modulation of glucocorticoid metabolism by the growth hormone - IGF-1 axis

The growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor 1 (GH-IGF-1) axis plays an important role in modulating the peripheral metabolism of glucocorticoids mainly through its effect on the isoenzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11 beta-HSD1) which, in vivo, functions as a reductase catalysing the conversion of cortisone to cortisol. Several in vivo and ex vivo studies have shown that the GH-IGF-I system inhibits the expression and activity of 11 beta-HSD1 in adipose tissues and the liver resulting in reduced local regeneration of cortisol. This interaction has clinically significant implications as it may at least partly explain the phenotypes of acromegaly and adult GH deficiency and the effects that treatment of these conditions has on body composition. In addition, by accelerating the peripheral metabolism of cortisol, GH therapy may precipitate adrenal insufficiency in susceptible hypopituitary patients, and endocrinologists should be mindful of this phenomenon when starting hypopituitary patients on GH replacement therapy.