Ghrelin, a 28 amino acid acylated peptide, participates in the neuroendocrine regulation of growth hormone secretion. Which statement best describes its role?
- A It is secreted by adipocytes in proportion to fat mass and inhibits GH secretion via somatostatin release
- B It is secreted mainly by the gastric fundus, rises before meals, and acts on the GHS receptor to potentiate GHRH driven GH release ✓
- C It is secreted by the liver and mediates the negative feedback of IGF-1 on the hypothalamus
- D It is secreted by pancreatic delta cells and directly suppresses somatotroph function
Correct answer: B. It is secreted mainly by the gastric fundus, rises before meals, and acts on the GHS receptor to potentiate GHRH driven GH release
Explanation
Ghrelin is produced predominantly by X/B-like cells of the gastric fundus, peaks just before anticipated meals, and declines after eating. Through the growth hormone secretagogue receptor on somatotrophs and hypothalamic neurons it amplifies GH pulses, acting synergistically with GHRH. Leptin, not ghrelin, comes from adipocytes and correlates with fat mass, while hepatic IGF-1 mediates GH feedback, so options A and C describe different molecules entirely.
Reference: Ganong Review of Medical Physiology, 26th ed.
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