Genetic Variants Found to Predispose to Weight Regain

Numerous genetic variants predispose people to weight loss (WL) as well as weight regain (WR) after intentional WL, according to published research.

Linda M. Delahanty, R.D., from the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, and colleagues performed a randomized controlled study of 3,234 overweight/obese adults with impaired glucose tolerance. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: 850 milligrams of metformin twice daily, rigorous lifestyle modification, or placebo. Consenting participants underwent genetic analysis.

According to the researchers, the Ala12 allele at PPARG was linked to long- and short-term weight reduction regardless of treatment group. In addition, three of 16 obesity-predisposing genetic variants (NEGR1 rs2815752, BDNF rs6265, PPARG rs1801282) were associated with WR irrespective of treatment group, while another two (TMEM18 rs6548238 and KTCD15 rs29941) demonstrated treatment-specific effects.

"In summary, our findings offer novel insights into the mechanisms influencing the propensity for WR after intentional WL," the authors write. "This information may help target individuals who require additional support to maintain reduced weight in intervention settings."