Related Experiment Videos
Genetic influences on human energy expenditure and substrate utilization
1Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama, Birmingham 35294, USA. Mig@uab.edu
Behavior Genetics
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Genetic factors influence obesity by affecting energy expenditure and substrate utilization. Studies show heritability in these traits, highlighting the need for further genetic research into metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Metabolism
- Obesity Etiology
Background:
- Obesity's genetic underpinnings involve energy expenditure and substrate utilization.
- Heritability is suggested for resting energy expenditure, substrate utilization, and thermic response to feeding.
- Physical activity's energy expenditure heritability is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the genetic basis of obesity.
- To investigate the heritability of energy expenditure and substrate utilization.
- To identify genetic factors contributing to obesity.
Main Methods:
- Review of genetic susceptibility, twin, and family studies.
- Analysis of new data on energy expenditure in young sib pairs.
- Examination of candidate gene studies for proteins involved in energy and substrate metabolism.
Main Results:
- Strong heritability indicated for resting energy expenditure and substrate utilization.
- Moderate heritability suggested for nonresting energy expenditure.
- Limited candidate gene studies exist for key metabolic proteins.
Conclusions:
- Genetic factors play a significant role in obesity through energy expenditure and substrate utilization.
- Further research into the genetics of energy and substrate metabolism is warranted.
- Candidate gene approaches are needed to elucidate specific genetic contributions to obesity.