Very Obese People May Be Missing Genes

[Ozymanithrax]

Very Obese People May Be Missing Genes
Study adds to theories linking obesity and DNA
WEDNESDAY, Feb. 3 (HealthDay News) -- Adding more evidence to theories linking DNA to weight, European scientists report that a genetic variation seems to virtually guarantee that a person will become obese.

The genetic variation in question robs people of about 30 genes and appears to be found in seven of every 1,000 severely obese people, the researchers report. The same variation also may be linked to mental retardation and learning disabilities.

"Obesity is definitively a genetic trait, and it is very likely that additional small chromosomal abnormalities exist that may dramatically increase the risk of obesity and may also be linked to brain developmental problems," said Dr. Philippe Froguel, co-author of a study published in the Feb. 4 issue of the journal Nature and head of genomic medicine at Imperial College London.

In the new study, researchers examined the genes of teens and adults who had learning difficulties and developmental delays. Thirty-one people were missing the genes in question, and all were obese.

The researchers then looked at the genomes of 16,053 people who were either of normal weight or obese. Nineteen people had the same genetic deletion, and all were severely obese.

Very, very interesting article.

[JuniperLea]

1. It will rub some DUers the wrong way...

If word gets out that so many overweight people have a medical disability.

[Ozymanithrax]

2. I know the "personal responsibility" schtick can be found on the left as well as right...

and there is a belief that things like Corn syrup and food additives take all the blame. But we should be able to follow the research where it goes.

The research does not say that all obesity is caused by missing genes. But we should be able to recognize that it can and does have an impact. Those who have that problem should know it and research should look for ways to help them.

If they don't like the messanger, well I've been shot at by professionals (many years ago). I am here if they want to shoot at me, but only with verbaguns.