Metabolic · Peptide hormone
Ghrelin (human)
Also known as Acylated Ghrelin
The endogenous ligand for the GHSR-1a, acylated ghrelin is a key hormone studied for its role in appetite and growth hormone secretion.
- Length
- 28 amino acids
- Half-life
- Active (acylated) form has a plasma half-life of approx. 10-30 minutes.
- Mechanism
- This acylated peptide hormone is the endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR-1a).
- Studied in
- It is widely studied in models of appetite regulation, energy homeostasis, and as a primary stimulator of growth hormone release from the pituitary.
About Ghrelin (human)
Ghrelin is a 28-amino acid peptide hormone predominantly produced by gastric endocrine cells. Its defining structural feature is a post-translational modification: an n-octanoyl group esterified to the serine residue at position 3. This acylation is essential for its binding and activation of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR-1a).
As the only known endogenous ligand for GHSR-1a, ghrelin is a critical tool in endocrinology and neuroscience research. Its potent stimulation of growth hormone release is studied using pituitary cell cultures and tissue explants. Furthermore, its role in signalling hunger to the central nervous system makes it a key compound for investigating the complex pathways that govern energy balance and food intake.
Laboratory notes
- This product is the acylated, active form of ghrelin, which is required for GHSR-1a activation.
- The octanoyl group is prone to hydrolysis; use reconstituted solutions promptly and avoid high pH buffers.
- Store lyophilised peptide at -20°C or colder. Aliquot and store reconstituted solutions at -80°C.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Ghrelin (human)
What is the critical modification on this peptide?
Ghrelin is acylated with an eight-carbon fatty acid (n-octanoic acid) on its third amino acid, a serine. This modification is required for its primary biological activity.
What is the primary receptor for acylated ghrelin?
Its receptor is the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHSR-1a).
What is des-acyl ghrelin?
Des-acyl ghrelin is the form of the peptide lacking the fatty acid modification. It does not activate the GHSR-1a and is studied for other potential biological roles.
Is Ghrelin (human) for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.