Ghrelin and bone.
A consequence of gastrectomy is loss of bone mass. Several mechanisms have been proposed, such as malabsorption of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, a peptide hormone produced in the stomach has been shown to mediate a calcitropic effect on bone. The identity of this peptide has not been elucidated, but ghrelin, produced by A-like cells in the fundus of the stomach, could be a good candidate. Ghrelin stimulates growth hormone (GH) secretion both in vivo and in vitro, and could by this means have a positive effect on bone. There is also evidence for direct effects of ghrelin on bone. We discuss here the role that ghrelin may play in bone metabolism, based on the most recent literature.
van der Velde
Martijn
M
Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Dr Molewaterplein 50, 3015 CE, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Delhanty
Patric
P
van der Eerden
Bram
B
van der Lely
Aart Jan
AJ
van Leeuwen
Johannes
J
D000818:Animals; D016723:Bone Remodeling / Q000502:physiology; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000378:metabolism*; D005743:Gastrectomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D054439:Ghrelin / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D051381:Rats
D054439:Ghrelin