Ghrelin pp 47-59 | Cite as

Ghrelin: A New Link Between the Neuroendocrine Control of the GH Axis, Food Intake and Sleep

  • Virginie Tolle
  • The INSERM-ATC Nutrition Research Group on Ghrelin
Chapter
Part of the Endocrine Updates book series (ENDO, volume 23)

Abstract

Since its discovery in 1999 as an endogenous growth hormone (GH) secretagogue, diverse functions have been attributed to ghrelin, from gastrointestinal functions to cardiac physiology. Nowadays, the main interest has shifted from the GH releasing to the orexigenic properties of the peptide and its ability to increase adiposity. The purpose of the present chapter is to review the mechanisms by which ghrelin may act to regulate GH secretion, food intake and sleep-wake rhythmicity. The complex changes in circulating ghrelin levels in clinical conditions of GH hypo- or hypersecretion in relation with variable energy balance conditions are also reviewed and discussed.

Key words

ghrelin growth hormone feeding behavior sleep 
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Copyright information

© Springer Science + Business Media, Inc. 2004

Authors and Affiliations

  • Virginie Tolle
    • 1
  • The INSERM-ATC Nutrition Research Group on Ghrelin
    • 1
  1. 1.Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale INSERM U549ParisFrance

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