Expression of growth hormone receptors in colorectal carcinoma

Colorectal cancers are the third most common cancers in the western world and among its aetiological factors, hormones are considered to play an important role. Growth hormone is a general metabolic hormone which promotes growth and differentiation throughout the body. Whether growth hormone has any direct effects in the aetiology and pathogenesis of colorectal cancers has not been unequivocally established, although epidemiological data and in-vitro studies suggest a link. Growth hormone exerts its effects on the cells through its receptor, which is a transmembrane glycoprotein. A few studies have looked at the expression of growth hormone receptors in colorectal cancers. The aim of this article was to review the evidence available in literature and determine the link between the expression of growth hormone receptors and colorectal cancers.