Regulation of gene expression and biochemical changes in small intestine of newborn diabetic rats by exogenous ghrelin

► The experimental model of type 2 diabetic rats given ghrelin. ► Changes in cholecystokinin, somatostatin, apelin mRNA and peptide levels. ► The effects on antiapoptotic and antioxidant system. ► Ghrelin may be an important hormone for the treatment of diabetes.