According to research recently published in Nature, a small but significant proportion of severely obese people are missing a part of genetic code. The researchers say that the missing genes can greatly impact a person’s weight and significantly increase their risk of developing obesity.

While it was previously known that genetic variations contribute to about one in twenty cases of severe obesity, this study showed that otherwise healthy individuals may become obese due to a rare genetic mutation in which part of the genetic code is missing. This new discovery adds to the knowledge that in some people weight gain has an underlying genetic cause.

The study, which was authored by researchers from Imperial College London and ten other European Centres, considered the genomes of 16,053 people who were either obese or normal weight. It was found that seven in every thousand morbidly obese people are missing a segment of their DNA, containing approximately 30 genes. The genetic deletion identified in this study was not found in anyone of normal weight.

Based on the identification of genetic variations, researchers hope they can develop genetic tests which can be used to determine the best course of treatment for people who are severely obese due to genetic factors. If these people can be identified, then appropriate support and medical interventions, including the option of weight loss surgery, can be prescribed to assist with weight loss and improve their overall health.

Source:
Imperial College London News Release