Ghrelin-Mediated Regeneration and Plasticity After Nervous System Injury

The nervous system can be damaged by various factors, leading to neurodegeneration. Ghrelin, a hormone, has shown potential in stimulating neurorepair and neuroactivity. This review discusses how ghrelin could help in attenuating neurodegeneration. Ghrelin regulates physiological processes beyond its role in activating appetite-related neurons. It has been found in various organs and brain areas, suggesting multiple functions. The hormone's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier is essential for its effects on the nervous system. Ghrelin's effects on nerve regeneration are complex and involve multiple signaling pathways. It can promote neurogenesis, protect against cell death, and modulate inflammation. Depending on the conditions, ghrelin can either stimulate or suppress autophagy, acting as an "on-demand" modulator.

• 1
  Ghrelin can modulate downstream signaling cascades in both the developing and adult nervous systems, influencing neurogenesis and neuronal plasticity.
• 2
  Ghrelin shows neuroprotective and repair effects upon acute and chronic degeneration, including reducing microglial activity and suppressing apoptosis.
• 3
  The therapeutic potential of ghrelin depends on the type and complexity of the injury, with local administration potentially being more effective than systemic administration in some cases.