The effects of ghrelin/GHSs on AVP mRNA expression and release in cultured hypothalamic cells in rats

► KP-102 and ghrelin significantly increased AVP mRNA expression and release. ► GHS-R knockdown blocked ghrelin- and KP-102-induced AVP mRNA expression and release. ► NPY significantly increased AVP mRNA expression and release. ► Anti-NPY IgG blocked KP-102-induced AVP mRNA expression and release. ► ACTH secretion by ghrelin/GHSs is induced mainly by hypothalamic AVP via NPY.