POMC - Obesity (Labrador Retriever)

POMC (proopiomelanocortin) is a gene that codes for a precursor protein that has different functions in different parts of the body, including the brain, where it is involved in regulating appetite and satiety. Mutations in this gene can lead to impaired hunger regulation and obesity.

In Labrador Retrievers, a specific mutation in the POMC gene has been discovered that is associated with obesity and increased appetite. Dogs with this mutation tend to eat more, are more difficult to get fed and therefore have a higher risk of obesity and associated health problems. This discovery provides important insights into the biological basis of obesity in dogs and may help in the development of strategies to control weight and improve the health and quality of life of obese dogs.