Unraveling genetic mechanisms have done much to further the understanding of regulatory pathways governing body weight and perhaps how we have had to come to view the whole problem of obesity.
ARCD understands complex gene-environment interactions which are likely to explain why obesity has become so prevalent.
Genome-wide association studies have identified several key genes involved in increased BMI and blood sugar dysregulation.
These include:
- Human Fat Mass Gene (FTO)
- Melanocortin 4 Receptor (MC4R)
- Fatty Acid Binding Protein 2 (FABP2)
- Beta-2 Adrenergic Receptor (ADRB2)
- SH2B adaptor Protein 1 (SH2B1)
Each patient receives a complete evaluation and if a patient qualifies, we offer gene testing where there is a strong family history particularly of severe early-onset obesity.