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A biochemical function for attractin in agouti-induced pigmentation and obesity

  • Lin He
  • , Teresa M. Gunn
  • , Donna M. Bouley
  • , Xin Yun Lu
  • , Stanley J. Watson
  • , Stuart F. Schlossman
  • , Jonathan S. Duke-Cohan
  • , Gregory S. Barsh

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Agouti protein, a paracrine signaling molecule normally limited to skin, is ectopically expressed in lethal yellow (Aγ) mice, and causes obesity by mimicking agouti-related protein (Agrp), found primarily in the hypothalamus. Mouse attractin (Atrn) is a widely expressed transmembrane protein whose loss of function in mahogany (Atrnmg-3J/Atrnmg-3J) mutant mice blocks the pleiotropic effects of Aγ. Here we demonstrate in transgenic, biochemical and genetic-interaction experiments that attractin is a low-affinity receptor for agouti protein, but not Agrp, in vitro and in vivo. Additional histopathologic abnormalities in Atrnmg-3J/Atrnmg-3J mice and cross-species genomic comparisons indicate that Atrn has multiple functions distinct from both a physiologic and an evolutionary perspective.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)40-47
Number of pages8
JournalNature Genetics
Volume27
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Genetics

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