Interrupted IGF-1 Feedback in GHRH Neurons and Somatotrophs Results in Impaired Weight Gain and Increased Energy Expenditure

Growth hormone (GH) expression and release are thought to be primarily regulated by the counter-regulatory effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and somatostatin (SST). Several reports generated in our lab and others suggest that there are other factors that regulate GH production, such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I). Using GH-Cre recombinase targeting of the somatotroph-specific IGF-1R knockout (SIGFRKO) mouse model, we have previously demonstrated the role of IGF-1 signaling in negative feedback regulation of GH production. This model, however, presented with an incomplete phenotype, suggesting additional regulatory pathways in the hypothalamus. To provide insight into this mechanism, we have developed new transgenic mouse models that maintain the integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary GH axis, with the single exception of IGF-IR deficiency in both hypothalamic GHRH neurons and somatotroph cells, termed GHRH-somatotroph IGF-1R knockout (G-SIFGRKO). Axiological assessments showed normal linear growth until week 14 of age, both male and female G-SIFGRKO mice presented with a significant reduction in growth velocity compared to control animals. Indirect calorimetry assessment performed at 12–14 weeks of age demonstrated that G-SIFGRKO mice had higher volume O2 consumption and lower volume CO2 production associated with increased energy expenditure than controls. The calculated respiratory exchange ratio was significantly reduced in G-SIFGRKO mice with no changes observed in either ambulatory or total activity. Furthermore, glucose and insulin tolerance tests showed no differences in glucose metabolism between G-SIFGRKO and controls. Collectively, these data provide further confirmation of the combinatorial role of IGF-1 signaling in regulating GH production and, for the first time, highlight a new GHRH-IGF-1R mediated pathway to regulate body growth and energy balance. Targeting this pathway has the potential to lead to a better understanding of the intersection between growth and metabolism and therapeutic approaches for obesity.