Genetically mutated ob/ob mice:
A) have very high levels of leptin and are chronically underweight.
B) lack the direct thalamus-to-amygdala fear pathway.
C) are obese, yet display many of the internal physiological characteristics of a starving animal.
D) maintain perfect energy homeostasis even if underfed or overfed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Genetically mutated ob/ob mice are known to be obese due to a mutation in the gene that produces the hormone leptin. However, despite their excess fat stores, they display physiological characteristics that mimic a starving animal, such as increased hunger, reduced energy expenditure, and reduced levels of hormones that indicate satiety. This is due to a feedback mechanism in which their bodies recognize the lack of leptin and try to compensate by promoting hunger and conserving energy.

Genetically Mutated Ob/ob Mice