Ghrelin is a 28 aa gastric peptide, recently identified as a natural ligand of the growth
hormone secretagogue receptor (orphan receptor distinct from the receptor for growth
hormone releasing hormone). In the present study, radioimmunoassay demonstrated ghrelin-
like material in the rat oxyntic mucosa with moderate amounts also in antrum and
duodenum. Small amounts were found in the distal intestines and pancreas. Northern blot
analysis revealed abundant ghrelin mRNA in the oxyntic mucosa. Immunocytochemistry …