Zucker Fatty Rat (ZFR) Model Preclinical Services
Obesity Preclinical Contract Research Solutions
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Zucker Fatty Rat (ZFR) Model Preclinical Services

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At Ace Therapeutics, we provide specialized preclinical research services utilizing the ZFR model to support drug development for obesity and metabolic disorders. Our expertise in study design, execution, and data analysis ensures robust and reliable results for our clients.

Introduction to the ZFR Model in Obesity Research

The Zucker Fatty Rat (ZFR) is a well-established genetic model for studying obesity and its metabolic complications. Characterized by a spontaneous mutation in the leptin receptor gene (fa/fa), ZFRs develop hyperphagia, early-onset obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and progressive glucose intolerance—phenotypes that closely mirror human metabolic syndrome. This model is particularly valuable for investigating the pathophysiology of obesity, evaluating therapeutic interventions, and identifying biomarkers associated with disease progression.

Fig 1. Zucker fatty fa/fa rats.Fig.1. Zucker fatty fa/fa rats as an established genetic model of obesity. (Hankir, M. K. et al. 2021)

Our ZFR-Based Preclinical Services

At Ace Therapeutics, we leverage the ZFR model to deliver robust preclinical insights for obesity-related drug discovery and development. Our services focus on generating actionable data to support target validation, efficacy testing, and mechanistic studies, enabling clients to advance promising candidates with confidence.

Efficacy Assessments

  • Evaluate candidate compounds' effects on weight regulation, adiposity, glucose homeostasis, and lipid metabolism.
  • Quantify changes in feeding behavior, energy expenditure, and physical activity using advanced monitoring systems.

Pharmacodynamic & Pharmacokinetic Profiling

  • Characterize dose-response relationships, bioavailability, and tissue distribution of therapeutics.
  • Investigate biomarkers linked to metabolic improvements (e.g., leptin sensitivity, inflammatory cytokines).

Safety & Tolerability Screening

Conduct comprehensive toxicology assessments, including histopathological evaluations of liver, adipose tissue, and cardiovascular systems.

Combination Therapy Testing

Explore synergistic effects of multi-target approaches to address obesity's multifactorial nature.

Applications of the ZFR Model in Preclinical Development

The ZFR model supports a broad spectrum of obesity-related research applications:

  • Anti-Obesity Drug Screening: Assess efficacy of appetite suppressants, lipase inhibitors, or mitochondrial uncouplers on weight gain, adiposity, and metabolic parameters.
  • Mechanistic Studies: Investigate drug effects on leptin signaling, adipose tissue inflammation, or gut microbiome interactions.
  • Biomarker Discovery: Identify circulating or tissue-specific markers linked to insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, or NAFLD/NASH progression.
  • Combination Therapy Evaluation: Test synergistic effects of dual-target agents (e.g., GLP-1 agonists + amylin analogs).
  • Safety Pharmacology: Monitor cardiovascular and renal outcomes in obese phenotypes.

Why Choose Ace Therapeutics?

Choosing the right preclinical research partner is crucial for obtaining high-quality data that informs drug development decisions. Ace Therapeutics offers the following advantages:

  • Expertise in Obesity and Metabolic Research
  • Comprehensive Study Design
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities
  • High-Quality Data Interpretation
  • Customized Research Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About ob/ob Mouse Model

What makes the Zucker Fatty Rat (ZFR) model suitable for obesity research?

The ZFR model is a genetically modified rat strain that develops spontaneous obesity due to a mutation in the leptin receptor (fa/fa) gene. This model exhibits key features of human obesity, including hyperphagia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, making it a valuable tool for preclinical obesity research.

How are studies designed using the ZFR model?

Each study is customized based on the research objectives. We define experimental endpoints such as body weight changes, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers to assess therapeutic effects. Study duration and dosing regimens are optimized based on specific project needs.

What types of analysis can be performed using the ZFR model?

We offer a comprehensive range of analyses, including biochemical assays (glucose, insulin, lipid panels), histological assessments (adipose tissue, liver, pancreas), gene expression profiling, and metabolic phenotyping.

Can Ace Therapeutics provide customized study designs?

Yes. We tailor our preclinical studies to meet client-specific objectives, offering flexibility in dosing strategies, biomarker selection, and endpoint analysis to optimize study outcomes.

How do you ensure data quality and reproducibility?

We employ rigorous study protocols, standardized methodologies, and robust statistical analyses to ensure high-quality, reproducible results. Our experienced team carefully monitors all study phases to maintain data integrity.

Reference

  1. Hankir, M. K., et al. (2021). Leptin Receptors Are Not Required for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery to Normalize Energy and Glucose Homeostasis in Rats. Nutrients. 13(5), 1544.
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