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[Cholecystokinin and cholecystokinin receptor]
1Department of Gastroenterology, National Kyushu Cancer Center.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|April 1, 1996
Summary
OLETF rats lack the cholecystokinin-A receptor (CCKAR) gene, offering a unique model for studying CCKAR functions. These rats demonstrate that pancreatic exocrine functions are regulated by agents other than CCK.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Cholecystokinin (CCK) functions as both a hormone and neuropeptide, acting on CCK receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
- Two primary CCK receptors have been identified: CCK-A receptor (CCKAR) and CCK-B/gastrin receptor (CCKBR).
- The genes encoding CCKAR and CCKBR are comprised of five exons and four introns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of OLETF rats, a model for non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), as a tool for studying CCKAR biological functions.
- To understand the role of CCKAR in pancreatic exocrine regulation.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing OLETF rats, which naturally exhibit a lack of CCKAR gene expression (a CCKAR gene knockout model).
- Analyzing the regulation of pancreatic exocrine functions in OLETF rats.
Main Results:
- OLETF rats exhibit no expression of the CCKAR gene.
- Pancreatic exocrine functions in OLETF rats are regulated by various neural and peptidergic agents, excluding CCK.
Conclusions:
- OLETF rats represent a valuable naturally occurring CCKAR gene knockout model.
- This model facilitates the examination of CCKAR's biological functions and its role in pancreatic exocrine regulation, independent of CCK signaling.