Central and Sensory Control of Food Intake in Genetically Obese Mice

Abstract

The food intake of genetically obese mice was compared with that of non-obese sibs under 3 experimental conditions: (1) dilution by cellulose fiber; (2) addition of bitter substances; (3) enrichment by fat. Genetically obese mice were less able than controls to adjust their food intake adaptively under these conditions. In this respect they resemble rats made hyperphagic by hypothalamic lesions. The pattern of adaptation of obese mice suggests that they differ from normals in their response to signals arising from biological needs, rather than in their response to stimulus-qualities of the food. This view contrasts with other interpretations of the etiology of experimental obesity.