What gene strongly links obesity in pet dogs and humans?

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The DENND1B Gene Shows a Strong Link to Obesity in Both Dogs and Humans

Researchers have identified the DENND1B gene as being strongly associated with obesity in pet dogs, a finding that also carries implications for weight gain in humans. This gene influences a critical brain pathway involved in regulating appetite and energy balance. The study specifically examined British Labrador Retrievers, a breed known for its propensity towards obesity and a strong inclination towards food.
Identification of the DENND1B Gene

The DENND1B gene has emerged as the gene exerting the most significant influence on obesity risk within the studied canine population. This discovery was made through a genome-wide association study conducted on 241 British Labrador Retrievers. The research aimed to pinpoint genetic variations linked to specific traits, with obesity being a primary focus.
Impact on the Leptin-Melanocortin Pathway

The DENND1B gene's influence is exerted through the leptin-melanocortin pathway, a crucial system in the brain responsible for managing energy balance and appetite. This pathway is already recognised as a significant target for various anti-obesity medications, highlighting the potential for insights derived from this gene to inform human health interventions.
Genetic Risk and Owner Effort in Maintaining Healthy Weight

The study also succeeded in quantifying the genetic predisposition to obesity in individual dogs. It was observed that dogs with a higher genetic risk for obesity require substantially more effort from their owners to maintain a healthy weight. Conversely, dogs with a lower genetic risk tended to remain at a healthy weight regardless of their owners' management of diet and exercise, underscoring the interplay between genetics and environmental factors.

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What gene strongly links obesity in pet dogs and humans?

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