Genetic Ablation of Myelin Protein Zero-Like 3 in Mice Increases Energy Expenditure, Improves Glycemic Control, and Reduces Hepatic Lipid Synthesis

The study from July 15, 2013, explored the role of myelin protein zero-like 3 (Mpzl3) in mice by creating Mpzl3 knockout (Mpzl3-KO) mice and examining their metabolic outcomes. The Mpzl3-KO mice showed increased energy expenditure, improved glycemic control, and reduced hepatic lipid synthesis, despite increased food intake. These mice had lower body weight and fat mass and were resistant to diet-induced obesity. They also demonstrated increased insulin sensitivity, with lower blood glucose and insulin levels during glucose tolerance tests, and a significant reduction in hepatic triglyceride levels. Skeletal muscle function was enhanced, with increased contractile force and mitochondrial capacity. The study concluded that Mpzl3 is crucial for metabolic homeostasis and its absence leads to metabolic improvements. The number of mice used in the experiments varied, with some tests including 4-5 to 7-9 mice, and others ranging from 5 to 8 mice per group.