Obesity and the brain: a possible genetic link
1Neuropsychiatric Genetics Group, Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Ihnestrasse 63, Room 204,1, 14195 Berlin, Germany. lbertram@molgen.mpg.de.
Alzheimer'S Research & Therapy
|September 30, 2010
Summary
The fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) gene influences brain volume. Specific FTO gene variations linked to obesity also correlate with reduced frontal and occipital lobe brain volumes in healthy older adults.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Genetics
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Obesity is influenced by multiple genetic factors, with the FTO gene being a consistent finding.
- Previous research indicates links between structural brain differences and body mass index (BMI).
Discussion:
- This study investigated the association between FTO gene polymorphisms and brain volume in healthy older adults.
- Researchers utilized data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.
Key Insights:
- A significant correlation was observed between specific FTO alleles and reduced brain volume in the frontal and occipital lobes.
- These findings suggest a potential genetic pathway connecting obesity predisposition and brain structure.
Outlook:
- Further research is needed to determine the functional implications of these brain volume differences for cognitive function.
- Investigating the relevance of FTO's effect on brain structure in the context of neurological diseases is warranted.
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