The many faces of ghrelin: New perspectives for nutrition research?

Bärbel Otto, Jochen Spranger, Stephen C. Benoit, Debbie J. Clegg, Matthias H. Tschöp

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

The appetite-modulating peptide ghrelin is predominantly produced and secreted by the stomach and shows a strong growth hormone-releasing activity, which is mediated by the activation of the so-called growth hormone secretagogue type 1a receptor. Ghrelin is involved in the regulation of energy balance by increasing food intake and reducing fat utilization. Additionally, it stimulates lactotroph and corticotroph function, influences the pituitary gonadal axis, inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, controls gastric motility and acid secretion and influences pancreatic exocrine and endocrine function, as well as impacting on glucose metabolism. This review summarizes the known functions of ghrelin and its role in the regulation of the gut-brain axis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)765-771
Number of pages7
JournalBritish Journal of Nutrition
Volume93
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2005
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Anorexia
  • Diabetes
  • Energy balance
  • Ghrelin
  • Obesity

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