Body shape and fat distribution appear to be partially controlled by genes involved normal development. DNA chips were used to compare the levels of activity for three specific genes – Tbx15, Gpc4, and HoxA5. Intra-abdominal and subcutaneous fat taken from individuals of normal weight versus overweight or obese individuals were analyzed with these three genes appearing to be especially important in fat deposits and obesity.
Dr. Stephane Gesta:
The differences we found in gene expression were so distinct that we could identify the body mass index (level of obesity) and the waist/hip ratio (whether the fat is in the …read more