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Ghrelin Receptors

Meaning

Ghrelin receptors are specific G protein-coupled receptors, primarily known as the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor type 1a (GHSR-1a), which serve as the binding site for the hormone ghrelin. These receptors are widely distributed, notably in the hypothalamus and pituitary, where their activation is central to regulating energy homeostasis and stimulating growth hormone release. They are critical mediators of the hunger signal and the initiation of feeding behavior.