Normal Mouse vs. Agouti Mouse



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	Normal Mouse Average systolic pressure = 125 mmHg Average diastolic pressure = 90 mmHg Average mean pressure = 111 mmHg Heart rate = 580 beats per minute Agouti Mouse Average systolic pressure = 121 mmHg Average diastolic pressure = 90 mmHg Average mean pressure = 107 mmHg Heart rate = 600 beats per minute


Leptin has numerous signaling pathways in the brain. One such pathway is through a neurotransmitter called alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone. When leptin levels rise, alpha MSH rises. If given to an animal, alpha MSH causes metabolic rate to rise and causes satiety (lack of hunger). A naturally occuring mutation blocks the function of alpha MSH. These mice, termed agouti for their yellow coat color, are obese, but not to the extent of the mice missing leptin.

Pictures of mice taken from www.chem.ufl.edu/~richards/members.htm