Ghrelin
low riskAlso: Hunger hormone · Obestatin precursor · GHSR-1a agonist
Reference entry for native ghrelin — the endogenous hunger hormone produced primarily by gastric X/A cells. Acts on GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) to stimulate appetite and GH release. All GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, hexarelin) mimic ghrelin at this receptor. Not used therapeutically as native peptide due to short half-life.
Reported Benefits
Appetite/hunger signaling
Foundational endocrine physiology. GHS-R1a is the drug target for the entire GHRP class.
GH secretion
Co-stimulator of GH release; basis for entire GHRP/secretagogue drug class.
Mechanism of Action
Endogenous GHS-R1a agonist; stimulates appetite via hypothalamic NPY/AgRP neurons; stimulates GH release from pituitary; promotes adipogenesis; modulates blood glucose.
Why Ghrelin Matters for Peptide Research
Understanding native ghrelin physiology is essential for understanding the entire GH secretagogue class. Every GHRP (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, hexarelin, MK-677) acts on the ghrelin receptor. The differences between them are selectivity, potency, and off-target effects — all relative to native ghrelin’s pharmacological profile.
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Regulatory Status
Research OnlySafety Profile
Side Effects
- •Not applicable as endogenous hormone
Contraindications
- •N/A
Primary Uses
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