Growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) (GHSR)

The growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), commonly known as the ghrelin receptor, is a G protein-coupled receptor primarily recognized for its role in stimulating growth hormone release and regulating energy balance. In the eye, GHSR is expressed in various retinal interneurons, including amacrine cells and horizontal cells, as well as in retinal ganglion cells, where it modulates synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability (1, 2). Ghrelin signaling through GHSR in the retina has been implicated in neuroprotective pathways, potentially offering a therapeutic target for retinal degenerative diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma (3, 4). Beyond its metabolic functions, GHSR activity in the retina may influence circadian rhythms and light-dark adaptation (5). Pharmacological agents targeting GHSR, such as macimorelin and anamorelin, are used clinically for diagnosing growth hormone deficiency and treating cancer-associated cachexia, respectively (6). Ongoing research continues to explore the potential of GHSR modulators in treating ocular pathologies and neurodegenerative conditions (7). Sources: 1. UniProt (P39411) 2. PubMed (PMID: 22451480) - Ghrelin and its receptor in the retina. 3. PubMed (PMID: 25653081) - Neuroprotective effects of ghrelin in the retina. 4. NIH/NCBI Gene (Gene ID: 2693) 5. PubMed (PMID: 21156118) - GHSR expression in retinal neurons. 6. PubChem (Compound CID: 11523663) - Macimorelin. 7. PubMed (PMID: 30254012) - Therapeutic potential of ghrelin in ocular diseases.

Other names

Ghrelin receptorGHS-RGrowth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1GHSR1a

Agonism of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor to stimulate growth hormone release and increase appetite; antagonism or inverse agonism for metabolic disorders.