The Laron mouse

Abstract

Studies of GHR-/- mice have helped to reveal the role of GH in many physiological processes such as reproduction, growth, GH/IGF-1 feedback loops to the pituitary, insulin and glucose metabolism, longevity, and obesity. This mouse model has also been used to investigate in vivo intracellular signaling systems specific for the GH/GHR interaction. Additionally, these mice have been and continue to be used to study disease states in which GH has been implicated in the pathophysiology of the disease such as Type 1 diabetes and certain cancers. In the following sections, we will elaborate on these findings, and where possible, point out similarities/differences between results found in mice versus human LS individuals. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2011.