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Current Diabetes Reports
Published in: Current Diabetes Reports 1/2020

01-01-2020 | Obesity | Genetics (AP Morris, Section Editor)

Heterogeneity in Obesity: Genetic Basis and Metabolic Consequences

Authors: Jonathan Sulc, Thomas W. Winkler, Iris M. Heid, Zoltán Kutalik

Published in: Current Diabetes Reports | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Our review provides a brief summary of the most recent advances towards the identification of the genetic basis of specific aspects of obesity and the quantification of their consequences on health. We also highlight the most promising avenues to be explored in the future.

Recent Findings

While obesity has been demonstrated to lead to adverse cardio-metabolic consequences, the determinants of inter-individual variability remain largely unknown. The elucidation of the molecular underpinnings of this relationship is hampered by the extremely heterogeneous nature of obesity as a human trait. Recent technological advances have facilitated a more in-depth characterization of body composition at large-scale.

Summary

At the pace of current data acquisition and resolution, it is realistic to improve characterization of obesity and to advise individuals based on detailed body composition combined with tissue-specific molecular signatures. Individualized predictions of health implications would enable more personalized and effective public health interventions.
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Metadata
Title
Heterogeneity in Obesity: Genetic Basis and Metabolic Consequences
Authors
Jonathan Sulc
Thomas W. Winkler
Iris M. Heid
Zoltán Kutalik
Publication date
01-01-2020
Publisher
Springer US
Keywords
Obesity
Obesity
Published in
Current Diabetes Reports / Issue 1/2020
Print ISSN: 1534-4827
Electronic ISSN: 1539-0829
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-020-1285-4
Live Webinar | 27-06-2024 | 18:00 (CEST)

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WHO estimates that half of all patients worldwide are non-adherent to their prescribed medication. The consequences of poor adherence can be catastrophic, on both the individual and population level.

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