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Ghrelin and toxicity: recent findings and future challenges
Ioanna Vasileiou1, Demetrios Patsouras, Efstratios Patsouris
1First Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75 Mikras Asias Street, GR11527 Goudi, Athens, Greece.
Journal of Applied Toxicology : JAT
|August 14, 2012
Summary
Ghrelin, a brain-gut peptide, demonstrates significant protective effects against tissue injury in multiple organs, including the heart, liver, kidneys, and brain. This review consolidates evidence of its therapeutic potential in various injury models.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
- Neurology
Background:
- Ghrelin is a peptide hormone primarily secreted by the gastric mucosa.
- It plays crucial roles in regulating food intake, growth hormone release, and gastrointestinal functions.
- Emerging evidence suggests ghrelin possesses protective properties against various forms of tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review and evaluate existing in vivo and in vitro studies.
- To summarize the effects of ghrelin on tissue injury across different organs.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of ghrelin in injury models.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search for in vitro and in vivo studies on ghrelin and tissue injury.
- Analysis of experimental data from diverse organ systems.
- Evaluation of study designs and reported outcomes.
Main Results:
- Ghrelin exhibits potent protective effects against cardiac, gastric, and hepatic injury.
- Studies indicate beneficial impacts on renal tissue injury and function post-ischemia-reperfusion.
- Neuroprotective effects of ghrelin in cerebral ischemia have been documented.
Conclusions:
- Ghrelin demonstrates broad organ-protective capabilities.
- Its multifaceted biological actions extend to mitigating tissue damage.
- Ghrelin represents a promising therapeutic agent for various injury-related conditions.
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