Depending on GHSR

Although a handful of biotech companies are pursuing ghrelin antagonists to treat obesity, the hormone target could also have a role in alcohol dependence, according to a team led by Swedish researchers.¹ Even though the findings reveal a new indication for ghrelin inhibitors, it's still unclear whether the molecules could treat alcoholism without altering appetite or body weight.

Ghrelin plays a role in regulating appetite and energy homeostasis in the body. Compounds that block its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), are in development to treat obesity, whereas ghrelin agonists are being pursued to treat cachexia and postoperative ileus (POI)...