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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
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Segmentation and Measurement of Fat Volumes in Murine Obesity Models Using X-ray Computed Tomography
Published on: April 4, 2012
Multiple linked mouse chromosome 7 loci influence body fat mass
1Rowe Program in Genetics and Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Summary
Congenic mouse strains reveal at least three obesity-influencing genes on chromosome 7. Maternal effects may also impact body fat regulation in these mouse models.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Obesity Research
- Animal Models
Background:
- Congenic mouse strains utilize donor DNA to isolate specific genomic regions.
- These strains are crucial for identifying genes with subtle effects on complex traits like obesity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify congenic strains harboring genes that influence body fat in mice.
- To investigate potential interactions among these identified obesity-related genes.
Main Methods:
- A congenic strain (B6.C-H1) with a 24 centiMorgan (cM) donor region showed significantly reduced body fat.
- This region was dissected into 11 smaller, overlapping subcongenic regions for detailed analysis.
- Phenotypic differences in obesity traits were assessed by comparing littermates with varying donor genotypes.
Main Results:
- Three subcongenic strains demonstrated significant genotype-dependent effects on obesity.
- Analysis of overlapping regions indicated that a single gene could not explain the observed obesity phenotypes.
- Genetically identical offspring exhibited obesity variations based on maternal subcongenic genotype.
Conclusions:
- At least three genes influencing obesity were identified within chromosomal regions ranging from 0.5 to 5 cM.
- Evidence suggests a potential maternal effect gene influencing obesity in certain subcongenic strains.
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