Increased Fat Taste Preference in Progranulin-Deficient Mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Metabolism
• Genetics

Background:

• Progranulin deficiency is linked to CD36 scavenger receptor signaling issues.
• CD36 receptors in the tongue mediate the sensation of dietary fats.
• Progranulin-deficient mice exhibit moderate overweight tendencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between progranulin, CD36 expression in the tongue, and fat taste preference.
• To determine if progranulin deficiency influences dietary fat intake and body weight.

Main Methods:

• Behavioral analysis using IntelliCages and Phenomaster to assess taste preferences in progranulin-deficient (Grn-/-) and wildtype mice.
• Measurement of CD36 expression at RNA and histological levels in taste buds.
• Analysis of plasma and tongue lipid profiles.

Main Results:

• Progranulin-deficient mice showed a significantly stronger preference for fatty substances (milk, MCTs) compared to controls.
• This heightened fat preference correlated with a 10% increase in body weight in Grn-/- mice.
• Reduced CD36 expression was observed in the taste buds of Grn-/- mice, without alterations in plasma or tongue lipid levels.

Conclusions:

• Progranulin deficiency downregulates CD36 expression in the tongue.
• This downregulation enhances the preference for fatty tastes and foods.
• The study links progranulin-CD36 interaction in the tongue to the regulation of appetite and body weight.