Genetic variations in plasma lipid content in mice

Abstract

Large genetic variations in plasma concentrations of total lipids, cholesterol + cholesterol ester, and phospholipids were found in STR/lN, DBA/2JN, and A/LN mice and their crosses. The concentrations were constant from 2 to 16 months of age and were independent of sex. The levels of the three fractions varied in parallel fashion among the various mating groups studied. The data suggest that the genetic factors governing the plasma lipid concentrations were polygenic and had an over-all additive behavior. Inheritance of greater body weight was generally dominant or displayed heterosis. Hepatic total lipid concentrations did not correspond to plasma values in many mating groups. Reciprocal differences in hepatic lipid concentration were found in some of the crosses of STR/lN and A/LN, whereas these were not found for the plasma values.