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.