Identification of quantitative trait loci affecting body composition in a mouse intercross.

Gravimetric analysis and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry densitometry were used to determine lean, fat, and bone tissue traits in a F(2) mouse population from a C57BL/6J and CASA/Rk intercross (B6CASAF2). These traits were used in a linkage analysis to identify quantitative trait loci that affect body composition. Linkage mapping showed that body weight (BW) loci on proximal chromosome 2 occurred in the same region as body length, lean tissue mass, and bone mineral content and on chromosome 13 in the same region as lean tissue mass, bone mineral density, and bone mineral content.

The metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.

The metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions including obesity, hypertension, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, is an important target in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk reduction. Many questions regarding CHD risk and pathophysiology, and optimal treatment of metabolic syndrome have been debated in recent years. These conditions individually increase CHD risk, and several lines of evidence suggest that the components, acting together synergistically, additionally raise an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular disease.