NIH researchers identify gene in mice that controls food cravings, desire to exercise

(NIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development) National Institutes of Health researchers have discovered a gene in mice that controls the craving for fatty and sugary foods and the desire to exercise. The gene, Prkar2a, is highly expressed in the habenula, a tiny brain region involved in responses to pain, stress, anxiety, sleep and reward. The findings could inform future research to prevent obesity and its accompanying risks for cardiovascular disease and...