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Published on: April 28, 2016
Ghrelin and GHS on cardiovascular applications/functions
1Research Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Göteborg, Sweden. jorgen.isgaard@medic.gu.se
Insights
Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) and ghrelin show potential cardiovascular benefits, including reduced peripheral resistance and cardioprotection. Further research is warranted to explore their therapeutic role in cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) were initially known for growth hormone release.
- Emerging evidence suggests GHS and ghrelin impact the cardiovascular system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cardiovascular effects of GHS and ghrelin.
- To assess the potential therapeutic applications of GHS and ghrelin in cardiovascular disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GHS and ghrelin cardiovascular effects.
- Analysis of in vivo and in vitro experimental data.
Main Results:
- Reported effects include decreased peripheral resistance.
- Potential improvements in cardiac contractility observed.
- Cardioprotective effects demonstrated in various models.
Conclusions:
- GHS and ghrelin exhibit significant cardiovascular effects.
- These findings suggest a potential role for GHS and ghrelin in treating cardiovascular conditions.
- Further investigation into GHS and ghrelin for cardiovascular disease therapy is recommended.
Abstract:
Although initially recognised for their GH-releasing properties, the cardiovascular system has been recognised as a potentially important target for GH secretagogues (GHS). Moreover, a limited number of studies also indicate cardiovascular effects of ghrelin. So far reported cardiovascular effects of GHS and/or ghrelin include lowering of peripheral resistance, possible improvement of contractility and cardioprotective effects both in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, these results offer an interesting perspective on the future where further studies aiming at evaluating a role of GHS and ghrelin in the treatment of cardiovascular disease are warranted.
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