Cell Cycle Regulators in Diabetes and Obesity

在本提案中，我们将使用在Cdk 4基因座中具有突变的小鼠模型。Cdk 4-/-小鼠是糖尿病和瘦的，相比之下，Cdk 4 R24 C小鼠是非糖尿病和更重的。这些观察结果与记录的RB/E2 F途径在脂肪形成和肌肉分化中的作用一致，尽管没有很好地表征。由于Cdk 4是E2 F-RB通路的上游调节因子，我们推测Cdk 4活性可能调节脂肪形成和肌肉发育和功能。此外，Cdk 4对胰岛素、性激素和葡萄糖调节的产生的作用可能影响Cdk 4 R24 C模型中的能量平衡。我们正在研究葡萄糖耐量和能量平衡的机制，通过评估CDK 4依赖的功能，在不同的代谢器官中的Cdk 4小鼠。这些发现揭示了Cdk 4在调节能量平衡过程中的重要作用。

In this proposal we will use mouse models that have mutations in the Cdk4 locus. Cdk4-/- mice are diabetic and lean, and in contrast, Cdk4R24C mice are non-diabetic and heavier. These observations are consistent with the documented, albeit not very well characterized, role of the RB/E2F pathway in adipogenesis amd muscle differentiation. Since Cdk4 is an upstream regulator of the E2F-RB pathway, we hypothesize that Cdk4 activity may regulate adipogenesis and muscle development and function. Further, the effect of Cdk4 on production of insulin, sex hormones and glucose regulation may impact the energy balance in the Cdk4R24C model. We are studying mechanisms of glucose tolerance and energy homeostasis by evaluating CDk4-dependent functions in different metabolic organs in the Cdk4 mice. The findings are revealing important role of Cdk4 in process that modulate energy balance.