Evidence for shared genetics between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and adiposity-related traits

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Exercise Science
• Obesity Research
• Behavioral Epidemiology

Background:

• Physical activity and sedentary behavior are linked to adiposity-related traits in observational studies.
• These associations appear bidirectional, with physical activity potentially suppressing genetic obesity risk.
• Understanding the genetic interplay is crucial for causal inference in obesity research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence on shared genetics between physical activity and adiposity-related traits.
• To examine gene-by-physical activity interactions influencing adiposity.
• To outline challenges and opportunities in studying these complex relationships.

Main Methods:

• Review of observational, cross-sectional, and longitudinal human studies.
• Analysis of genetic correlations between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and adiposity traits.
• Examination of Mendelian randomization studies to infer causality.

Main Results:

• Physical activity and sedentary behavior show genetic correlations with body mass index and fat percentage, but not lean body mass.
• Mendelian randomization indicates bidirectional relationships between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and adiposity.
• Evidence suggests physical activity can suppress genetic risk for adiposity.

Conclusions:

• Genetic factors play a significant role in the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and adiposity.
• Bidirectional causality exists, and physical activity may mitigate genetic obesity risk.
• Long-term intervention studies are needed to fully elucidate these complex interactions.