The present invention relates to transgenic animals, as well as compositions
and methods relating to the characterization of gene function. Specifically, the
present invention provides transgenic mice comprising mutations in a glucagon receptor
gene. Such transgenic mice are useful as models for disease and for identifying
agents that modulate gene expression and gene function, and as potential treatments
for various disease states and disease conditions. The present invention also relates
to diabetes and diabetic condition, as it demonstrates the role of the glucagon
receptor in diabetes and diabetic conditions. The present invention further relates
to weight gain and weight related conditions, such as obesity, and demonstrates
the role of the glucagon receptor in weight gain and weight related conditions,
such as obesity. In accordance with these aspects, the present invention provides
methods and compositions useful in identifying, testing, and providing treatments
for diabetes and diabetic conditions, weight gain and weight related conditions
such as obesity.
