The GHS receptor (GHS-R1a, the ghrelin receptor) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that, when activated in vitro, signals mainly through a calcium-mobilizing pathway that researchers measure with cell-based assays. This guide explains the pathway.
What is the GHS receptor?
The GHS receptor is a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and the molecular target of growth-hormone-secretagogue reference compounds. It is also known as the ghrelin receptor.
The signaling step
When an agonist binds the GHS receptor, the receptor couples to a G-protein that activates phospholipase C, leading to release of intracellular calcium. This calcium signal is the primary readout of GHS-receptor activation in many cell models.
How activation is measured
Cell-based assays track intracellular calcium with fluorescent indicators, or use reporter systems that respond when the pathway is active. These assays let researchers compare how strongly reference compounds engage the receptor.
Why study it in vitro
A defined signaling readout makes the GHS receptor a tractable system for comparing secretagogue reference compounds under controlled conditions.
Related research guides
- GH secretagogues research overview
- GHRH analogs vs GH secretagogues
- Ipamorelin & GHS selectivity
- Sermorelin: a researcher guide
Research-use note
All compounds referenced are supplied for in vitro laboratory research use only.
Related research: Ipamorelin GHS receptor selectivity in vitro.
