Transgenic animals

Article Abstract:

Transgenic animal models are providing more insight into a number of human diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Genetic engineering enables the manipulation of eggs and embryos to create unlimited DNA combinations, most successfully used in mice. Molecular biologists use recombinant DNA techniques to construct the desired gene product to be transferred, the transgene. The DNA structure is injected into fertilized mouse eggs harvested from an hyperovulating mother mouse. After culturing, the injected eggs are then implanted into the female mouse. Only a small portion of the embryos born at term will have the transgene in their germ-line DNA. Tissue analysis confirms the presence of transgenic expression at desired locations within the mouse. Subsequent matings ensure a line of transgenically identical animals used for biomedical research.

Methods, Models, Genetically modified animals, Human genetics, Animal genetic engineering

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Genetic variation in the beta3-adrenergic receptor and an increased capacity to gain weight in patients with morbid obesity

Article Abstract:

A mutation in a gene coding for a receptor involved in fat metabolism may play a role in predisposing carriers of the mutation to gain weight. Gene analysis was performed in a group of 94 normal weight participants and 185 extremely overweight patients. Carriers of the mutation were not more likely to be greatly overweight, but on average they weighed more and had gained more weight between the ages of 20 and 45. The correlations between carrying the mutation and obesity were examined in four families. Not all carriers were obese, which suggests that other factors such as food intake modify the effect of the defective receptor. It is thought that carriers may have a slower metabolic rate.

Genetic aspects, Epinephrine, Genetics, Adrenergic receptors

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Resistin, obesity, and insulin resistance -- the emerging role of the adipocyte as an endocrine organ

Article Abstract:

The hormone resistin may explain the link between obesity and type 2 diabetes. Resistin is a hormone produced by fat cells. In mice, obesity increases blood levels of resistin, which in turn causes insulin resistance.

Causes of, Insulin resistance

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