What is the Origin of Ghrelin Secretion?

The term is a combination of "ghrelin," a name derived from a root word meaning to grow, relating to its function as a Growth Hormone-releasing peptide, and "secretion," the physiological process of release. This concept is a central component of the gut-brain axis, which integrates peripheral metabolic status with central nervous system control.

What is the Mechanism of Ghrelin Secretion?

Ghrelin secretion is predominantly governed by the absence of food in the stomach; plasma levels rise sharply before meals and drop significantly after eating. Once released, ghrelin acts on the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor, found in the hypothalamus and pituitary, activating neurons that drive hunger and influence energy expenditure. This hormonal mechanism communicates a state of energy deficit to the central nervous system, prompting the organism to seek nourishment.

Ghrelin Secretion ∞ Area

Ghrelin Secretion

Meaning

Ghrelin secretion is the biological process by which the 28-amino acid peptide hormone ghrelin is released into the bloodstream, primarily by specialized enteroendocrine cells located in the lining of the stomach. Functioning as the body’s primary orexigenic or appetite-stimulating signal, its release is tightly regulated and plays a pivotal role in the short-term control of energy balance and the initiation of feeding behavior.