The leptin gene in mice is named leptin, and its official gene symbol is Lep.
Understanding the Leptin Gene (Lep)
The Lep gene is fundamental to the regulation of energy balance and metabolic processes in mice, serving a similar role to its human counterpart. Identified by its official name leptin and gene symbol Lep, this gene's comprehensive details are meticulously cataloged within the Mouse Genome Informatics (MGI) database.
Leptin, a hormone named from the Greek word "leptos" (meaning thin), is predominantly secreted by adipose (fat) tissue. It plays a critical role in signaling satiety to the brain, thereby influencing food intake and energy expenditure. Disruptions in leptin signaling can lead to significant metabolic imbalances.
Phenotypes Associated with Lep Mutations
Mutations or specific allele variations within the Lep gene in mice can lead to pronounced physiological and metabolic alterations. Specifically, homozygous mice carrying mutations in the Lep gene exhibit a range of severe phenotypes, which include:
- Obesity: A primary characteristic, resulting from uncontrolled appetite and excessive fat accumulation.
- Hyperphagia: Chronically increased food consumption.
- Low Activity: Reduced physical movement and diminished energy expenditure.
- High Metabolic Efficiency: An enhanced ability to convert food into stored energy, contributing to weight gain.
- Impaired Thermogenesis: Difficulties in regulating body temperature, particularly in colder environments.
- Infertility: Reproductive system dysfunctions.
- Short Lifespan: A notably reduced overall longevity compared to healthy mice.
- Varying Other Abnormalities: Additional diverse health issues may also be present.
These observable characteristics underscore the critical function of the leptin gene in maintaining metabolic health and overall physiological stability.
Key Details of the Lep Gene
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gene Name | leptin |
| Gene Symbol | Lep |
| MGI ID | MGI:104663 |
| Primary Function | Regulation of energy balance, appetite, metabolism |
| Associated Phenotypes (in homozygous mutants) | Obesity, hyperphagia, low activity, high metabolic efficiency, impaired thermogenesis, infertility, short lifespan, other abnormalities |
The detailed understanding of the Lep gene in mice provides invaluable insights into the genetic underpinnings of obesity and various metabolic disorders, establishing it as a crucial model for human health research.
