GPRC6A null mice exhibit osteopenia, feminization and metabolic syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

GPRC6A is a widely expressed orphan G-protein coupled receptor that senses extracellular amino acids, osteocalcin and divalent cations in vitro. The physiological functions of GPRC6A are unknown.

Methods/principal findings

In this study, we created and characterized the phenotype of GPRC6A(-/-) mice. We observed complex metabolic abnormalities in GPRC6A(-/-) mice involving multiple organ systems that express GPRC6A, including bone, kidney, testes, and liver. GPRC6A(-/-) mice exhibited hepatic steatosis, hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. In addition, we observed high expression of GPRC6A in Leydig cells in the testis. Ablation of GPRC6A resulted in feminization of male GPRC6A(-/-) mice in association with decreased lean body mass, increase

SUBMITTER: Pi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2585477 | biostudies-literature | 2008

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature