GHRL Protein
Greater than 97% as determined by:
(a) Analysis by RP-HPLC.
(b) Analysis by SDS-PAGE.
Description
The GHRL is purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Ghrelin, often referred to as the “hunger hormone,” is a peptide hormone primarily produced by enteroendocrine cells in the gastrointestinal tract, especially the stomach . It plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and energy balance by signaling the brain to induce hunger . Ghrelin levels rise before meals and fall after eating, making it a key player in meal initiation and satiety .
The human ghrelin gene, located on chromosome 3 (3p25-26), spans 7.2 kb and consists of six exons . It is transcribed and translated into a precursor protein called pre-proghrelin, which is then cleaved to produce a 94-amino-acid intermediate known as proghrelin . Further processing yields the active 28-amino-acid ghrelin peptide .
Ghrelin’s primary function is to regulate appetite by stimulating the hypothalamus, the brain region responsible for hunger and energy homeostasis . It binds to the GHS-R1A receptor, activating neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons, which promote food intake . Additionally, ghrelin increases gastric motility and stimulates the secretion of gastric acid, preparing the body for food intake .
Beyond its role in hunger regulation, ghrelin has several other physiological functions:
- Growth Hormone Release: Ghrelin stimulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland .
- Glucose Metabolism: It plays a role in glucose homeostasis by influencing insulin secretion and sensitivity .
- Cardiovascular Health: Ghrelin has cardioprotective effects, including vasodilation and anti-inflammatory properties .
- Cognitive Functions: It is involved in learning, memory, and reward-based behaviors .
Due to its role in hunger and energy balance, ghrelin is a target for obesity and weight management therapies. Modulating ghrelin levels could potentially help control appetite and reduce food intake . Additionally, its involvement in growth hormone release makes it relevant in conditions related to growth hormone deficiencies .
