| pubmed-article:12082928 | pubmed:abstractText | Ghrelin is an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R) that potently stimulates growth hormone (GH) release. The discovery of ghrelin opens up a new regulatory system for GH secretion. Surprisingly, recent studies in rodents suggest that peripherally or centrally administered ghrelin, independent of GH, decreases fat oxidation and increases food intake and adiposity. In addition, plasma ghrelin levels are lower in obese human subjects. Ghrelin might participate in meal initiation and may signal to the hypothalamus when an increase in metabolic efficiency is needed. | lld:pubmed |
