A new class of obesity genes encodes leukocyte adhesion receptors

摘要: Obesity is a complex disease, and multiple genes contribute to the trait. The description of five (ob, db, tub, Ay, fat) responsible for distinct syndromes spontaneous monogenic obesity in mice has advanced our knowledge genetics obesity. However, many other involved expression this disease remain be determined. We report here identification an additional class regulation adipose tissue mass. These encode receptors mediating leukocyte adhesion. Mice deficient intercellular adhesion molecule-1 became spontaneously obese old age on normal mouse chow or at young when provided with diet rich fat. counterreceptor molecule-1, integrin αMβ2 (Mac-1), showed similar phenotype. Since all consumed approximately same amount food as controls, function appears regulating lipid metabolism and/or energy expenditure. Our results indicate that (i) leukocytes play role preventing excess body fat deposition (ii) defects can result