Gene Mutation Leads to Obesity

In a recent article published by Science Daily says how researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have discovered how a gene mutation can be responsible for obesity. The team at Georgetown found that a mutation to BDNF (brain derived nuerotrophic factor) gene doesn’t allow leptin and insulin to properly reach the brain. These are two hormones that are release once the body has been satisfied by the consumption of food.

Until this study was performed, researchers were clueless as to which gene controls the secretion of leptin and insulin. Even though the gene linked to obesity has been discovered, there is no cure to repair the BDNF gene. Researchers are currently experimenting different ways to repair this gene and cure adult obesity.