Effects of AMPK activation and combined treatment with AMPK activators and somatostatin on hormone secretion and cell growth in cultured GH-secreting pituitary tumor cells

► We investigated the effects of AMPK activation in cultured GH-secreting tumor cells. ► Combined treatment with AMPK activators and SS-14 was also investigated. ► Molecular events following AMPK activation were characterized in rat GH3 cells. ► Cells from human adenomas were less sensitive to AMPK-dependent growth inhibition than GH3 cells. ► Combined treatment with AMPK activators and SS-14 analogs could be a valid option in some adenomas.