Ghrelin: much more than a hunger hormone.

Purpose of review Ghrelin is a multifaceted gut hormone which activates its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). Ghrelin's hallmark functions are its stimulatory effects on food intake, fat deposition and growth hormone release. Ghrelin is famously known as the “hunger hormone”. However, ample literature indicates that the functions of ghrelin go well beyond its role as an orexigenic signal. Here we have reviewed some of the most recent findings on ghrelin and its signaling in animals and humans.