Physiological, pathological and potential therapeutic roles of ghrelin

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2007

Authors

Leite-Moreira AF (Author) FMUP; Soares, JB (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Drug Discovery Today

Vol. 12 No. 23

Pages: 276-288

ISSN: 1359-6446

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 116 Citations

Scopus - 120 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-004-ASJ

DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2007.02.009

Abstract (EN): Ghrelin, a hormone that is produced mainly by the stomach, was identified originally as the endogenous ligand of the growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) receptor. Ghrelin might also be synthesized in other organs, where it might have autocrine or paracrine effects. GHS receptors are present in tissues other than the hypothalamus and pituitary, which indicates that ghrelin has other effects in addition to stimulating the release of growth hormone. Recently, it has been suggested that ghrelin might be involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases and be a therapeutic target in these diseases. Here, we provide an overview of the physiological effects of ghrelin and of its pathological and potential therapeutic roles.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 13