Genes Causing Obesity Are found finally

A team of researchers has linked obesity in grownups and children and a single gene variation. One variation in the gene for brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) may affect obesity in children and grownups, as stated by the study that indicates that a less common form of the BDNF gene may predispose individuals to obesity by creating lower amounts of BDNF protein, a regulator of desire, in the mind.

The writers propose that improving BDNF protein levels may provide a remedial strategy for people who have the genetic variation, which will happen more often in Hispanics and African Americans, than in non-Hispanic Caucasians.

Obesity in adults and children is a critical problem in America, leading to health states like stroke, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Notably, genetic factors can predispose an individual to obesity, along with help determine the effectiveness of weight loss strategies.

The body relies on cells and changes in genes may cause an imbalance that results in weight gain and excessive energy storage.

Jack A. Yanovski, one of the study authors, said that this study describes how a single genetic change in BDNF affects obesity and may impact BDNF protein levels. Locating individuals with special reasons for obesity may enable researchers to judge successful -personalized treatments.

Researcher Joan C. Han said that lower BDNF levels may lead to obesity in individuals with the C allele. In case additional studies support these findings, improving BDNF levels may prove valuable. The study is published in the journal Cell Reports.