| Theme | The Beginning of Neurogastroenterology | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Various Functions of Ghrelin | |
| Publish Date | 2003/09 | |
| Author | Akihiro Asakawa | Division of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Department of Clinical Molecular Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author | Kazunori Fujino | Department of Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science |
| Author | Mineko Fujimiya | Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science |
| Author | Akira Niijima | Department of Physiology, Niigata University School of Medicine |
| Author | Akio Inui | Division of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Department of Clinical Molecular Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] | Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand for growth-hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R), was recently identified in the stomach, with structural resemblance to motilin. Ghrelin induces a state of positive energy balance and body weight gain by promoting food intake, decreasing energy expenditure and stimulating GH secretion. The expression and secretion are increased by fasting and are decreased by feeding. Moreover, ghrelin influences gut motility, anxiety, glucose metabolism, adipose tissue and memory retention. These observations suggest that the gastric peptide ghrelin and its receptors may be potential therapeutic targets for various diseases. | |