New insights into the molecular complexity of the ghrelin gene locus

Ghrelin is a multi-functional peptide hormone that affects a range of processes, including growth hormone and insulin release, appetite regulation, reproduction, and cancer cell proliferation. The main focus of this review is to advance the hypothesis that the ghrelin gene locus encodes an array of biologically active molecules in addition to ghrelin and is far more complex than currently appreciated. Alternative splicing and the use of alternative post-translational cleavages sites may give rise to novel ghrelin gene-derived peptides that potentially act through different receptors and have novel biological functions.