Disruption of the developmental factor Otp in the adult forebrain reveals its diverse physiological functions

Abstract

Orthopedia (Otp) transcription factor is a critical determinant in the development of the neuroendocrine hypothalamus, and its embryonic deletion results in lethality. Although Otp expression is maintained throughout life, its physiological function in adulthood is not well understood. Here, we generated a forebrain-specific, tamoxifen-inducible, conditional knockout mouse model to investigate the roles of Otp beyond development. Conditional deletion of Otp in two-month-old mice resulted in impaired stress responses, characterized by increased depressive-like behavior and elevated stress-induced cortisol levels. It also led to various metabolic changes, including reduced thyroid hormone levels and body temperature, a higher percentage of fat mass, and diminished responsiveness to ghrelin without affecting food intake, energy expenditure, or body weight. This composite metabolic phenotype was associated with reduced hypothalamic neuropeptides TRH, CRH, AgRP, and NPY expression. Our findings highlight the role of Otp in adult physiological functions as a key neuroendocrine integrator of adaptive stress response and energy balance.