Question

In a diagram or in 50 words or less, what are the effects of a loss-of-function mutation in the growth hormone on: a) femur length; b) growth hormone secretion; and c) IGF1 production by the liver?

Answer 1

The loss of function mutation causes the growth hormone from preventing it's effects on the target tissues. The levels of the hormone may be normal or slightly increased due to feedback regulation

A. Loss of function mutation of growth hormone leads to decrease in the length of the femur as bone growth is the normal function of the growth hormone

B. The growth hormone secretion is most likely unchanged.... But in severe cases, due to lack of the effects on the target tissues causes feedback mechanism and causes increase in the growth hormone production

C. Normally, IGF1 is produced by the hepatocytes in response to the growth hormone and has similar effects like that of the growth hormone on the target tissues... So loss of function mutation of growth hormone causes decreased IGF1 production by the liver.

Hope this helps.... Thank you!!!