Placental growth hormone

Placental growth hormone (PGH), also known as placental lactogen, is a protein hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of fetal growth and development, as well as maternal metabolism.

Function

PGH is primarily responsible for stimulating the growth and development of the fetus. It achieves this by promoting the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the liver, which in turn stimulates the growth of various tissues in the fetus.

In addition to its role in fetal growth, PGH also has significant effects on maternal metabolism. It increases the breakdown of fat to provide energy for the growing fetus and stimulates the production of glucose in the mother's body, thereby ensuring a constant supply of nutrients to the fetus.

Structure

PGH is a protein hormone, meaning it is made up of amino acids. It is structurally similar to human growth hormone (hGH), but has a longer half-life and is more potent in its effects.

Production

PGH is produced by the placenta, a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. The production of PGH begins around the sixth week of pregnancy and continues until birth. The levels of PGH in the mother's blood increase progressively throughout pregnancy, reaching their peak in the third trimester.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of PGH can have serious implications for both the mother and the fetus. Low levels of PGH can lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), a condition where the fetus does not grow at the expected rate in the womb. High levels of PGH, on the other hand, can lead to gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.

PGH is also being studied for its potential use in the treatment of growth disorders and certain types of cancer.

See also

• Growth hormone
• Pregnancy
• Placenta