Discovery of the gene responsible for fat accumulation in the body
Researchers from Osaka University in Japan have discovered the gene responsible for regulating the size of fatty tissues in the body, known as the (HSP47) gene.
The journal Nature reported that the size of the human body depends on lifestyle, nutrition, levels of physical activity, health and mental state, as well as the functioning of the endocrine system.
To identify the genetic factors affecting the process of fat accumulation, researchers studied and analyzed data related to gene expression (activity) in fatty tissues.
The results showed that the activity of the HSP47 gene is responsible for determining the amount of fat in the body. The expression of the HSP47 gene increases in fatty tissues with weight gain and calorie intake, and decreases in cases of inadequate nutrition and increased physical activity. This gene is also significantly associated with body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference.
Additionally, researchers discovered that insulin, a hormone associated with fat accumulation or loss, increases the expression of the HSP47 gene. Therefore, they believe that mutations in this gene may be the cause of disruptions in the metabolic process – the overall chemical reactions occurring in the body.
