Genetics and obesity have a unique relationship. Genetics plays one of the most significant roles
in the development of diabetes. Although obesity clinically results from more of a complex intersection
of genetics, other factors such as one’s environment and behavior are equally important factors.
Research has concluded that genetics can influence an individual's susceptibility to both gaining weight
and becoming obese.1. Some of the most common genetic dispositions include genetic predisposition,
metabolism, fat storage and distribution, hormone makeup, inheritance of lifestyle factors, and
someone’s response to physical activity.1 Some individuals are predisposed to gain more weight than
others as a result of genes. These genetic variations often impact the metabolism, appetite, fat storage,
and the way the body uses and stores energy can all ultimately lead to obesity.1 Genetics can predispose
individuals to developing obesity. A combination of genetic predisposition along lifestyle choices will
truly be the determining factor that will increase someone’s chances of being obese.
Multiple studies have suggested that genes can become expressed or even activated in ways that
can lead to obesity. Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to
create a functional gene product, typically a protein.2 Needless to say genetic expression is often
influenced by a variety of factors with epigenetic modification being one of the most common.
Epigenetic modifications are changes to the underlying DNA sequence.2 Epigenetic changes directly
impact weight regulation and how genes are expressed, which can potentially lead to the development
of obesity. Epigenetic alterations can affect genes associated with obesity through DNA methylation,
non-coding RNAs, histone modifications, and imprinting disorders.2 A perfect example of gene
expression leading to obesity is that of histone modification. Histone modification potentially introduces
considerable variations in the fine structure, offering a mechanism for promoting or preventing gene
expression.3 Essentially histones package DNA into a compact structure so any modifications can affect
the accessibility of the DNA. Therefore altered histone modifications have been linked to obesity along
with metabolic dsyregualtion.2 Obesity is a multifaceted condition but gene expression has been
determined to be one of those contributing factors of obesity.
In direct correlation to genetic expression and inherited tendency for developing obesity, genetic
expression is vital in an individual's vulnerability to becoming obese. Genetic expression often translates
into inherited tendencies through genetic variation, altered gene expression, functional gene products,
metabolism, and physiological effects, inheritance of genetic variation, and gene-environment
interactions.4 The functional impact of gene products is often the most common genetic variation
inherited. Essentially gene products that are a result of altered gene expression directly impact
physiological processes related to metabolism and energy regulation.4 In hindsight this has a direct
impact on appetite, fat storage, and energy expenditures which all lead to genetic issues associated with
weight management.4 Another genetic expression that is inherited is the inheritance of genetic
variations. This variation and all associated gene expressions are passed down from a parent to their
child. This would conclude that if a person carries genetic variations that predispose them to obesity,
they can pass the same variation to their offspring which then leads to a familial history of obesity.4 In
conclusion genetic variations as well as their impact on gene expression are a critical component of
inherited tendencies associated with obesity from a familial perspective.
Obesity is one of the most common diseases worldwide as it can impact people of all
backgrounds although some are more susceptiable than others. 1 Corinthians 10:13 states, “No
temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man, God is faithful, and he will not let you be
tempted beyond your ability, but the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be
able to endure it” (ESV).5 There are many contributing factors associated with obesity, genetics being one
of them but not the only. Although genetics is extremely hard to predict and control one’s environment
and behaviors are. Lifestyle change is going to be one of the most important changes associated with
obesity and those who struggle with it. Diet and exercise are arguably two of the most important and
effective tools for weight loss and management as they will aid in the decrease of obesity even if it is due
to a genetic predisposition.
Reference:
1.Damavandi N, Soleymaniniya A, Bahrami Zadegan S, Samiee Aref MH, Zeinali S. Development of
a genetic risk score for obesity predisposition evaluation. Molecular genetics and genomics :
MGG. 2022;297:1495-1503
2.Markussen LK, Mandrup S. Adipocyte gene expression in obesity — insights gained and
challenges ahead. Current opinion in genetics & development. 2023;81:102060-102060.
3.Pratt, Charlotte and Cornely, Kathleen, Essential Biochemistry. (5th ed.) Wiley, 2021.
4.Granell S, Serra-Juhé C, Martos-Moreno GÁ, et al. A novel melanocortin-4 receptor mutation
MC4R-P272L associated with severe obesity has increased propensity to be ubiquitinated in the
ER in the face of correct folding. PLoS One. 2012;7(12):e50894.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0050894
5.1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV).
