Hypothalamic over-expression of VGF in the Siberian hamster increases energy expenditure and reduces body weight gain

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172724
• Publication Date: 2017-02-24T14:42:06Z
• Authors: Jo E. Lewis; John M. Brameld; Phil Hill; Cristina Cocco; Barbara Noli; Gian-Luca Ferri; Perry Barrett; Francis J. P. Ebling; Preeti H. Jethwa
• Keywords: Energy homeostasis; Homeostasis

VGF (non-acronymic) was first highlighted to have a role in energy homeostasis through experiments involving dietary manipulation mice. Fasting increased mRNA the Arc and levels were subsequently reduced upon refeeding. This anabolic for supported by observations null (VGF-/-) mouse diet-induced gold-thioglucose obese However, this has not been number of subsequent studies investigating physiological effects VGF-derived peptides. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion TLQP-21 resting expenditure rectal temperature mice protected against obesity. Similarly, ICV into Siberian hamsters significantly body weight, but due decrease food intake, with no effect on expenditure. Subsequently NERP-2 shown increase intake rats via orexin system, suggesting opposing roles these Thus further elucidate hypothalamic regulation we utilised recombinant adeno-associated viral vector over-express adult male hamsters, thus avoiding any developmental or associated functional compensation. Initially, over-expression produced metabolic parameters, 12 weeks post-infusion had oxygen consumption tendency carbon dioxide production; attenuated weight gain, interscapular white adipose tissue resulted compensatory intake. These observed changes an contents peptides AQEE, TLQP NERP-2. The complex phenotype VGF-/- is likely consequence global ablation gene its derived during development, as well adult.