The human obesity gene map: the 1999 update.

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Human Physiology
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Obesity is a complex multifactorial condition with a significant genetic component.
• Understanding the genetic basis of obesity is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated comprehensive map of genes and chromosomal regions associated with human obesity.
• To review evidence from various genetic studies, including single gene mutations, Mendelian disorders, quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and candidate gene associations.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature up to October 1999.
• Inclusion of data from human and animal models (mouse, rat, pig, chicken).
• Analysis of single gene mutations, Mendelian disorders, QTL studies, genome-wide scans, and candidate gene association studies.

Main Results:

• Five genes now explain 25 human obesity cases.
• Twenty Mendelian disorders with obesity as a feature have been mapped.
• 98 QTLs reported from animal models and 40 candidate genes show positive associations with obesity phenotypes.
• 44 loci linked to obesity indicators in genomic scans.
• Over 200 genes, markers, and chromosomal regions associated with human obesity phenotypes.

Conclusions:

• The human obesity gene map continues to expand, with genetic loci identified across all autosomes.
• The growing number of identified genes and loci highlights the complex genetic architecture of obesity.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific roles of these genes in obesity development and progression.