Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic Actions of Ghrelin

Ghrelin is primarily produced in the stomach and is known to be involved in feeding behavior, gastric function, and cardiovascular function, as well as growth hormone (GH) secretion. Ghrelin cells are believed to correspond morphologically to X/A-like cells whose products and functions have not yet been clarified. Identification of ghrelin cells in the stomach may contribute to the characterization of X/A-like cell function. Ghrelin is also present in the pancreatic islets and regulates insulin release, suggesting that ghrelin may play an important role in energy homeostasis. It is one of the major gut hormones and circulates through the bloodstream; however, ghrelin is thought to convey signals regulating GH release or feeding behavior and is transported to the brain via the vagal afferent system.