Growing taller? Thank your somatotropes! These cells in a tiny gland under your brain make growth hormone, and they do a lot of their work while you sleep.
Drag to turn it around. Use the buttons to zoom in and try things from the lessons.
The 3D model can't load right now. Check your internet connection, or try a different web browser.
Somatotropes (say so-MAT-oh-tropes) live in your pituitary gland, which hangs just under your brain, behind your eyes.
They are in the front part of the gland. They are the most common kind of cell there.
Each somatotrope is packed with tiny bubbles full of growth hormone, ready to send out into the blood.
Your pituitary gland is only about the size of a pea. It's sometimes called the master gland, because its hormones boss many other glands around!
Growth hormone travels all over your body in your blood. It helps your bones grow longer and your muscles get stronger.
Somatotropes let out growth hormone in bursts. Some of the biggest bursts happen during deep sleep at night.
Grown-ups make growth hormone too. It helps their bodies repair and stay strong.
Scroll up to the 3D model and press Night-time burst. Then remember: a good night's sleep helps you grow!