UCSF DIABETES, ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM TRAINING PROGRAM FACULTY RESEARCH SUMMARIES

We use mouse molecular genetic, neurochemical and quantitative behavioral analysis approaches to examine the role of central serotonin systems in the regulation of complex behavioral and physiological processes. We are particularly interested in the contribution of central serotonin systems to the regulation of energy balance, patterns of physical activity and glucose homeostasis. One relevant focus of our work is on the role of 5-HT2C receptors in the regulation of food intake and its interaction with the leptin system in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. We are also exploring additional links between the central serotonin system and diabetes. We are exploring similarities in the developmental programs leading to the production of mature of beta cells and serotonin neurons. Serotonin neuron-specific genetic manipulations are in use to determine the extent to which these similarities reflect novel roles for serotonin systems in the coordinate regulation of feeding and substrate homeostasis, stress responses and mood.

Selected References

Nonogaki K, Abdallah L, Goulding EH, Bonasera SJ and Tecott LH. Hyperactivity and reduced energy cost of physical activity in serotonin 5-HT 2C receptor mutant mice. Diabetes , 52: 315-320, 2003.

Cannon, CM, Abdallah L, Tecott LH, During MJ, Palmiter RD. Dysregulation of striatal dopamine signaling by amphetamine inhibits feeding by hungry mice. Neuron . 44: 509-520, 2004.

Tecott LH and Nestler EJ. Neurobehavioral assessment in the information age. Nature Neurosci. 7: 462-466, 2004.

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