Getting fat IS in genes, say experts
July 7th 2008
Scientists from Imperial College along with scientists from France, Denmark, Sweden and Germany studied the genomes of 13,000 people and found two gene mutations which cause European people to become fat.
The PKSK1 gene is responsible for an enzyme which produces insulin, glugagon and melanocortin all of which control metabolism. Small changes in this gene have been linked to obesity.
Professor Philippe Froguel said: “This is the first time we have found a strong link between common mutations and common obesity in the PCSK1 gene. It is an important addition to the list of genes we need to consider as targets for treatment in the future.”
(Mirror, p16,3 col.")
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