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Development and Validation of a Methodology for Establishing Obese Rat Models with Typical Fatty Pancreas

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Preclinical models for obesity research.

Perry Barrett¹, Julian G Mercer², Peter J Morgan¹

¹The Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK.

Disease Models & Mechanisms

|November 9, 2016

Summary

Preclinical models, including rodent studies, help understand obesity mechanisms. These models explore gene-environment interactions and test anti-obesity strategies for human application.

Keywords:

Binge eating Epigenetics Obesity Transgenics

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Area of Science:

* Neuroscience
* Genetics
* Metabolic Research

Background:

* The global obesity epidemic necessitates a deep understanding of its underlying mechanisms.
* Current knowledge largely stems from preclinical research, primarily using rodent models.
* Rodent models replicate key aspects of human obesity, including caloric overconsumption and dietary imbalances.

Purpose of the Study:

* To review and critically appraise various preclinical models for studying obesity.
* To explore the strengths and weaknesses of traditional and modern obesity models.
* To discuss the application of these models in developing anti-obesity therapeutics and strategies.

Main Methods:

* Review of traditional monogenic obesity models.
* Examination of optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches in obesity research.
* Analysis of dietary manipulations and meal-feeding regimes in experimental models.

Main Results:

* Preclinical models offer valuable insights into gene-environment interactions driving obesity.
* These models help elucidate neural circuits controlling appetite and feeding behaviors.
* Various models effectively recapitulate aspects of complex human obesity.

Conclusions:

* Preclinical models are crucial for dissecting obesity mechanisms and testing interventions.
* A critical appraisal of model strengths and weaknesses is essential for translational success.
* Findings from these models hold potential for developing novel treatments for human obesity.