People who carry a certain variant of the GLP1R gene are prone to obesity. Additionally, DNA methylation (a process that does not change the structure of the encoded protein but can affect gene expression) may increase the risk of being overweight. This conclusion was reached by scientists from Qingdao University in China. Results of the study: shared In the journal Nature.
Scientists tried to find out whether carrying different variants of the genes responsible for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP1R) was associated with obesity. Glucagon-like peptide-1 is a hormone from the incretin family that is produced in the intestines in response to food intake. It affects many different processes occurring in the body – it weakens the motor activity of the stomach and regulates its acidity. Glucagon-like peptide-1 also slows gastric peristalsis (wave-like contractions of the digestive tract walls). Thus, food does not pass through the digestive tract too quickly and the feeling of fullness lasts longer.
To find out which genetic changes could potentially increase the risk of obesity, scientists conducted a study involving 300 people. Scientists divided them into two groups. The first involved 120 obese people, and the second involved 180 volunteers with normal body weight. Both groups had similar eating and exercise habits.
DNA sequencing (an important technology in the study of DNA molecules) has shown that carriers of the rs4714211 variant of the GLP1R gene are prone to obesity. Additionally, methylation in the GLP1R gene may be a factor in body weight gain. Changes in the nucleotide sequence (chains of molecules that make up DNA) were present in four places in overweight people.
According to the scientists, their work has brought us closer to understanding the genetic mechanisms of obesity. More research is needed to examine these in greater depth.
It was before named It is a type of fat that increases the risk of dementia.