Final answer:
Growth hormone (GH), produced by the anterior pituitary gland, is essential for normal brain development and the growth rate of the body. It promotes protein synthesis and enhances growth in cells and bones. Both underproduction and overproduction can lead to growth abnormalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormone responsible for normal brain development and overall rate of growth in the human body is known as growth hormone (GH), or somatotropin. This protein hormone is produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. GH works through both direct and indirect mechanisms, promoting protein synthesis and tissue building. It plays a vital role in stimulating the growth of cells, tissues, and especially long bones by triggering chondrocyte proliferation in epiphyseal plates, which leads to an increase in bone length. GH also enhances calcium retention, which aids in bone mineralization and stimulates osteoblastic activity, thus improving bone density.
A balanced production of GH is essential for proper growth and development. Insufficient GH production in children can lead to pituitary dwarfism, characterized by reduced growth and a symmetric body formation. Conversely, excessive GH can cause gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults, which involves abnormal enlargement of bones.