Weight gain, diabetes, expanding waist line and a gene sequence
Scientists from Imperial College London and other international institutions have discovered a gene sequence that is associated with a 2cm expansion in waist circumference, a 2kg gain in weight, and a tendency to become resistant to insulin, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. The sequence is found in 50% of the UK population.
The study shows that the sequence is a third more common in those with Indian Asian than in those with European ancestry. This could provide a possible genetic explanation for the particularly high levels of obesity and insulin resistance in Indian Asians, who make up 25% of the world’s population, but who are expected to account for 40% of global cardiovascular disease by 2020.
The new gene sequence sits close to a gene called MC4R (Melancortin-4 Receptor), which regulates energy levels in the body by influencing how much we eat and how much energy we expend or conserve. The researchers believe the sequence is involved in controlling the MC4R gene, which has also been implicated in rare forms of extreme childhood obesity.
Elaine Warburton www.geneticsandhealth.com
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POSTED IN: DNA sequencing, Diabetes, General Genetics and Health, Genetics of Disease, obesity
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2 opinions for Weight gain, diabetes, expanding waist line and a gene sequence
Hope Wilbanks
May 5, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Very interesting study! Our weight plays such a huge role on many areas of our life.
Wood
May 14, 2008 at 5:39 am
If u want overcome frm diabetes then just control ur diets and do exercise on regular basis.
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