Ghrelin--a new player in glucose homeostasis?
The hormone ghrelin regulates secretion of growth hormone and energy homeostasis. Sun et al (2006), in this issue of Cell Metabolism, demonstrate that ghrelin inhibits insulin secretion. Deletion of ghrelin increased basal insulin level, enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and improved peripheral insulin sensitivity. These effects were not related to changes in food intake or weight, suggesting ghrelin has unique actions on key components of glucose homeostasis.
Ahima
Rexford S
RS
Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.