The ghrelin activating enzyme ghrelin-O-acyltransferase (GOAT) is present in human plasma and expressed dependent on body mass index

► GOAT was recently detected in the circulation of rodents. ► GOAT protein is also present in human plasma. ► GOAT levels are lower in anorexia and higher in obesity compared to normal weight. ► Plasma GOAT is positively correlated with BMI and negatively with ghrelin. ► The ghrelin activating enzyme GOAT may play a role in anorexia and obesity.