Physiology of Growth

Abstract

Growth is characterized by addition of newly
formed protoplasmic mass to the existing cells or
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laying down of new cells. Growth is a complex
phenomenon which is affected not only by growth
hormone and somatomedins but also by insulin,
thyroid hormones, androgens estrogens and
glucocorticoids. It is also affected by genetic and
racial factors, and adequate nutrition. It is normally
accompanied by a sequence of maturation changes
and it involves protein synthesis and increase in
length and size but not just an increase in weight.
Which could reflect formation of fat or retention
of salt and water rather than growth