Ghrelin: much more than a hunger hormone

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Research
• Physiology

Background:

• Ghrelin is a gut hormone that binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R).
• Traditionally known as the 'hunger hormone' for its role in stimulating appetite and fat deposition.
• Emerging research reveals ghrelin's functions extend beyond appetite regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on ghrelin and its signaling pathways.
• To explore the multifaceted roles of ghrelin in physiological processes.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting ghrelin and GHS-R.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on ghrelin signaling.
• Analysis of findings in both animal models and human subjects.

Main Results:

• Ghrelin influences glucose homeostasis by modulating insulin secretion and glucose metabolism.
• Ghrelin signaling impacts thermogenesis, energy expenditure, and cardioprotection.
• Ghrelin plays a role in preventing muscle atrophy and regulating bone metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Ghrelin signaling is vital for glucose and energy homeostasis, cardioprotection, muscle, and bone health.
• Ghrelin and GHS-R are promising therapeutic targets.
• Ghrelin mimetics and GHS-R antagonists show potential for treating conditions like heart disease, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, obesity, and insulin resistance.