Featured Article Academic Journal Main Category: Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness Also Included In: Genetics Article Date: 22 Jul 2013 - 5:00 PDT

Current ratings for: Could severe obesity be in the genes?

Scientists have discovered a particular gene mutation that could be linked to a cause of severe obesity.

Researchers from Boston Children's Hospital carried out a number of genetic surveys in several groups of people suffering from obesity, as well as a series of genetic experiments in mice.

The research, published in the journal Science, analyzed a gene called Mrap2 in different groups of mice. This particular gene has a human counterpart, which according to the scientists appears to be involved in regulating metabolism and food consumption.

The researchers explained that the protein encoded by the Mrap2 gene sends a signal to a receptor in the brain called Mc4r. This receptor assists in increasing the metabolism and decreasing appetite in a "signaling chain" involved in energy regulation.

They explain that fat cells produce a hormone called leptin. This hormone triggers receptors in the brain to start the production of a second hormone called aMSH.

Mrap2 helps Mc4r detect the aMSH hormone, which essentially leads to a drop in appetite and weight. The scientists explain that any mutations in this signaling chain are likely to increase the risk of obesity.

The researchers analyzed two groups of mice. One group who had the Mrap2 gene removed from just the brain, and one group who had the gene removed from "whole-of-body."

Both groups of mice grew to around twice their normal size, but weight gain was greatest in those with the gene removed completely.

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Could severe obesity be in the genes?

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