What is the Origin of Ghrelin Increase?

Ghrelin was discovered in 1999 as the endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, hence its name, which relates to "growth hormone releasing." Its primary function, however, is now understood to be centered on the regulation of hunger and satiety within the neuroendocrine system. The rise and fall of ghrelin is intrinsically linked to feeding cycles.

What is the Mechanism of Ghrelin Increase?

The stomach releases ghrelin when it is empty, and the hormone travels through the bloodstream to the hypothalamus, where it binds to receptors on neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons. This binding stimulates the activity of these orexigenic neurons, promoting food-seeking behavior and reducing energy expenditure. Conversely, nutrient intake suppresses its secretion, completing the homeostatic loop.

Ghrelin Increase ∞ Area

Ghrelin Increase

Meaning

Ghrelin increase refers to the elevated circulating levels of the peptide hormone ghrelin, which is primarily synthesized and released by the stomach. As the body’s principal orexigenic or appetite-stimulating hormone, its rise typically precedes meals and signals a state of negative energy balance to the central nervous system. Chronically high ghrelin levels can be a clinical marker for certain gastrointestinal or metabolic disorders.