Body weight is a balance between energy input (food intake) and energy output (comprising resting metabolic rate, meal-induced thermogenesis and physical activity). Weight loss can be produced by drugs that reduce food intake and/or increase energy expenditure. The mechanisms underlying the reduction in body weight produced by novel anti-obesity drugs should always be investigated by measuring the effects of the compound on both sides of the energy equation balance.

 

RenaSci offers a fully comprehensive metabolic profiling service using the TSE PhenoMaster system. This equipment uses indirect calorimetry to determine the effects of drugs on energy expenditure, and allows simultaneous and automated measurement of the following parameters:

• Oxygen consumption (VO2)
• Carbon dioxide production (VCO2)
• Energy expenditure (derived from VO2 and VCO2)
• Respiratory exchange ratio (RER, which estimates relative substrate utilisation, ie shifts in fat and carbohydrate utilisation)
• Food and water intake
• Meal and drink patterns (ie frequency and size)
• Physical activity (measured as beam breaks on the x, y and z axis).

 

Metabolic profiling by the TSE PhenoMaster is a useful tool for gaining insight into the mode of action of novel anti-obesity drugs. Studies can be performed in mice or rats.

 

CL-316,243 increases energy expenditure in DIO mice

CL-316,243 increases utilization of fat (reduces RER) in DIO mice

 

Please contact us for further information about measurement of energy expenditure using indirect calorimetry in mice and rats.