Plasma Ghrelin Levels in Lean and Obese Humans and the Effect of Glucose on Ghrelin Secretion

Ghrelin, a novel GH-releasing peptide isolated from human and rat stomach, stimulates food intake and GH secretion. We determined plasma ghrelin concentrations in patients with simple obesity, anorexia nervosa, and type 2 diabetes mellitus by RIA. We also studied plasma ghrelin responses to glucose load and meal intake and obtained a 24-h profile of circulating ghrelin in humans. Plasma ghrelin concentrations in patients with simple obesity and anorexia nervosa were lower and higher, respectively, than those of healthy subjects with normal body weight. Among those with type 2 diabetes mellitus, obese patients had lower and lean patients higher fasting plasma ghrelin concentrations than normal-weight patients.…

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