The GH–IGF system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: correlations between pituitary GH secretion capacity, insulin‐like growth factors and clinical features

Abstract

The results demonstrate an impairment of the GH-IGFs system in ALS. The degenerative process in ALS might lead to a compensatory increase in IGF-I in an attempt to provide additional support to motor neurons or degenerating muscle fibers. The decrease in IGF-II levels may also be of pathological significance.