DECREASING ADIPOSE MASS BY ALTERING RSK2 ACTIVITY

摘要

Deletion of the rsk2 gene in mice results in reduced body weight, reduced body fat and reduced sensitivity to diet-induced weight gain, as well as lower levels of leptin in the serum of rsk2 deficient mice and lower levels of oxygen consumption, as compared to wild type littermates. Thus, altering RSK2 activity provides a means for modulating RSK2-mediated signaling and therefore modulating the above described physiological parameters. The present invention encompasses methods and compositions for altering, or modulating in a mammal, body weight, fat content, leptin levels by altering, or modulating, RSK2 activity. Specifically encompassed in the present invention are methods and compositions to alter activity of the RSK2. The present invention is drawn to a model for the study of Coffin-Lowry syndrome as well as an in vivo model to screen and test therapeutic agents for the treatment of Coffin-Lowry syndrome. The present invention is further drawn to use of the rsk2 knockout mouse as a model to study and treatment of lipodystrophy and impaired glucose tolerance in mammals.