New Delhi

Scientists in China have identified a gene that could enhance resistance to obesity, potentially unraveling the complex mechanisms behind this global health issue.

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Obesity is associated with numerous serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.

As medical research progresses, humanity's understanding of obesity and its health implications continues to grow.

While diet and lifestyle factors are crucial, a recent study led by Professor Jin Li and Associate Professor Zheng Hongxiang from Fudan University points to the role of genetics in determining the intensity of obesity.

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The team analysed 2,877 samples from three independent populations in Guangxi, Jiangsu, and Henan.

Their findings were published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Genetics and Genomics.

Genetics and Obesity: What is the link?

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The study identified a type of mitochondrial DNA prevalent in southern China and Southeast Asia that appears to protect against obesity.

"Mitochondria are often referred to as the cell’s powerhouses, generating 80 to 90 percent of the energy needed for various human behaviors. Mitochondrial function has long been associated with obesity," Jin wrote.

Also read | Does obesity really increase risk of dementia or is it the opposite?

Unlike nuclear DNA, inherited from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is passed down only from the mother and is more prone to genetic mutations.

Jin and his colleagues performed association analyses of 16 basal mitochondrial DNA haplogroups, genetic families tracing back to a common ancestor.

They discovered that a specific variant group, M7, consistently correlated with a reduced risk of obesity.

Further analysis pinpointed the M7b1a1 subgroup as its most likely source.

Also watch | Obesity fuelling 32 types of cancer: Research

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A 2019 study by Professor Kong Qingpeng from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, published in Molecular Biology and Evolution, revealed that M7b1a1 is primarily found in southern China and mainland Southeast Asia, with significant frequencies among southern Han Chinese individuals, ranging from 5 to 14 per cent.

Jin suggested that reduced mitochondrial function might explain why M7b1a1 lowers obesity risk.

"Decreased mitochondrial functions represent less energy conservation and more heat production, which could result in less weight gain," he wrote.

"Our findings offer new insights into the genetic basis of obesity-related traits, enhancing our understanding of how genetics can influence body fat distribution and obesity risk," Jin concluded.