TRPV1-null mice are protected from diet-induced obesity

Abstract 

We explored a role for the capsaicin receptor, transient receptor potential channel vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), in the regulation of feeding and body mass. On a 4.5% fat diet, wild-type and TRPV1-null mice gained equivalent body mass. On an 11% fat diet, however, TRPV1-null mice gained significantly less mass and adiposity; at 44 weeks the mean body weights of wild-type and TRPV1-null mice were ∼51 and 34g, respectively. Both groups of mice consumed equivalent energy and absorbed similar amounts of lipids. TRPV1-null mice, however, exhibited a significantly greater thermogenic capacity. Interestingly, we found that 3T3-L1 preadipocytes expressed functional calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors. Thus, these data support a potential neurogenic mechanism by which TRPV1-sensitive sensory nerves may regulate energy and fat metabolism.

Abbreviations: CGRP, calcitonin gene-related peptide, TRPV1, transient receptor potential channel vanilloid type 1, CRLR, calcitonin receptor-like receptor

Keywords: TRPV1, Vanilloid receptor 1, VR1, Obesity, Capsaicin, Adipocyte, CGRP