What is the Origin of Ghrelin Analogues?

The term combines the hormone ghrelin, discovered in 1999, with analogues, referring to chemical compounds structurally similar to a natural substance but modified for therapeutic purposes. Their origin is rooted in endocrinology and pharmaceutical research focused on addressing disorders of growth, appetite, and cachexia.

What is the Mechanism of Ghrelin Analogues?

These analogues exert their function by acting as potent agonists at the GHS-R1a receptor, which is densely distributed in the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland. Activation of these receptors directly stimulates the somatotroph cells in the pituitary to release stored growth hormone in a pulsatile manner. Concurrently, their action on hypothalamic nuclei promotes orexigenic signaling, leading to an increase in appetite and food intake, thereby impacting body weight regulation.

Ghrelin Analogues

Meaning

Ghrelin Analogues are synthetic pharmacological compounds meticulously engineered to replicate and enhance the specific biological actions of ghrelin, the endogenous ‘hunger hormone’ predominantly secreted by the stomach lining. These molecules function by potently activating the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor (GHS-R1a) in the central nervous system. Clinically, they are investigated for their dual effects on stimulating growth hormone release and modulating appetite and energy balance.