If you're like the millions of people who have struggled with being extremely overweight, there is a chance that your problem is genetic according to a recent study. Multiple outlets today report that scientists have identified a genetic quirk that leads to obesity. And apparently, they say even more genetic variants are waiting to be reported - nine are currently being explored.
But if you're looking for a quick fix, you'll have to wait a while longer. The chairman of genetics and genomics at Boston University Medical School and member of the team who made the discovery, Michael F. Christman, says there is no immediate practical application of this information. But he notes that the genetic discovery could someday lead to more effective anti-obesity drugs.
According to Christman, about half the risk of obesity is determined by the genes people carry. Half of that risk is determined by eight to 10 genes in particular. The genetic variant identified in this study, which sits on chromosome 2, is associated with about 5 percent of obesity and is present in about 10 percent of people globally, he said.
What does this mean? Scientists are beginning to figure out how genetics affect obesity - which means the possibility of treating the condition is becoming more realistic. This study notes that based on the newly discovered gene's location, it could influence the production of a protein that inhibits production of fatty acid and cholesterol. Hence, people with the gene automatically, naturally produce more fat.
What this opens the door to is studying the molecular processes in the human body that make people fat, Christman said. And once the molecular pathways of obesity are known, researchers could use that knowledge to develop drugs targeting the pathways. While it's still several years away, that information could drive down the cost of drug development and result in better drugs, he said. All of this is pretty technical for the average person wondering about their weight to digest, and at the end of the day, more work is needed to say exactly how the relationship between the genes works.
In the meantime, what is the best thing people suffering from obesity can do? Well, considering that this particular gene affects just 10 percent of the population, don't assume you're dealing with an obesity predisposition just yet. Despite all the hype, the current answer remains to adjust your caloric intake, increase your exercise and work with your doctor on finding the program that's right for you.
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