Researchers at Oxford University have found a relationship between fat mass, excess weight and a gene that is associated directly with obesity, the FTO gene. The gene appears to be responsible for obesity and overeating. We have written about this subject before but the latest research provides further evidence that the FTO gene is directly related to obesity.
In a previous study it was revealed that people with 2 copies of these genetic variants were approximately 3kgs heavier on average compared with those who did not have this gene.
The researchers bred mice that had extra copies of the FTO gene. These mice ate more and were heavier than mice that did not possess the gene.
This discovery will allow research and development for weight loss drugs to be more focused but it will take some time to figure out how to make this gene less active through drug therapy. This study presents valid proof that obesity is at least in part caused by the FTO gene. It is only a matter of time before we see how effectively this information is put to use.