Schematic representation of factors influencing ghrelin release and mediating ghrelin’s effects on food intake and fat storage. ↑, increase; ↓, decrease; +, stimulation; −, inhibition, AgRP, agouti-related peptide; AP, area postrema; ARC, arcuate nucleus; DMH, dorsomedial nucleus of the hypothalamus; GHS-R1a, growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a; NPY, neuropeptide Y; NTS, nucleus of the solitary tract; PVN, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus.