Genes Identified in Common Childhood Obesity

A study done by the Early Growth Genetics Consortium, an international collaborative group, has newly identified at least two gene variants that raise the chances of common childhood obesity. Obesity is one of the largest health concerns facing modern society today and its occurrence in children is increasing. Previously studies have identified gene variants that have to do with extreme obesity, but not much is known about the genes dealing with common childhood obesity. The Center for Applied Genomics at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia gathered and genotyped the largest collection of DNA in the world of children with common obesity, but required help to complete its study on common childhood obesity so the Early Growth Genetics Consortium was formed.



With this help two gene loci were identified. One is near the OLFM4 gene on chromosome 13. The second gene is the HOXB5 gene located on chromosome 17. Some other evidence was also found for two more gene variants which were not specifically identified. This is also the first time that these genes were ever related to obesity. This is just the beginning of this work as the exact functions of the genes have yet to be identified, although they do lean towards having to do with the intestines. It is hoped that these findings may be able to lead to treatment or prevention of common childhood obesity based on the child’s genome.

I believe that this type of study could bring great benefit to the children affected by common childhood obesity. Obesity is one of the largest health problems in our society today and it is still growing. This study can help to take preventative measures with children who exhibit these genes and also help to treat those who are already obese with these genes before it is too late.