Ghrelin (M46, Appetite-regulating hormone, Growth hormone secretagogue, Growth hormone-releasing peptide, Motilin-related peptide, Protein M46, GHRL, MTLRP, UNQ524/PRO1066)

Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, is synthesized principally in the stomach. It stimulates food intake and transduces signals to hypothalamic regulatory nuclei that controls energy homeostasis. The peptide consists of 28 amino acids, with a n-octanoylation of the serine-3 residue, which is necessary for the biological activity mentioned below. Ghrelin is present in the peripheral circulation under two forms: acylated and unacylated.