[The diversity of ghrelin gene in its products and functions].

By alternative splicing and posttranslational modification, ghrelin gene encodes multiple products ranging from acyl-ghrelin, des-acyl-ghrelin, to obestatin. These products exhibit diverse functions such as stimulating growth hormone secretion, regulating food uptake, glucose and lipid metabolism, protecting cardiovascular system, and modulating immune and inflammation. This review summarizes the recent advances on the products of ghrelin gene and their diverse functions.