Ghrelin: Production, Action Mechanisms & Physiological Effects

This book presents current research in the study of ghrelin, a gastric peptide hormone and neurotransmitter, which has been identified in the hypothalamus of the central nervous system, and has importance in food intake, body-weight regulation and glucose homeostasis. Topics discussed in this compilation include the pro-ghrelin derived peptides in iris muscle regulation and their implication in glaucoma pathophysiology; the expression, mechanisms of activity and role of ghrelin in the development of brain and neuronal networks; the role of central ghrelin in gastric accommodation and reflex swallowing and physiological relevance of ghrelin synthesis, transport and degradation.