New genes linked with childhood obesity

UK researchers have identified four genetic variants associated with childhood obesity that could be used in future as targets for the development of new drugs.

The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute-associated trial showed that youngsters affected by the relevant structural variations of their DNA experienced deletion of key G-protein coupled receptors that help to regulate weight levels.

It is thought that some children will become obese due to serious mutations of these genes, while others will be affected by a combination of severe mutations and milder acting variants.

This research is vital given that children with severe obesity are more likely to have a strong genetic contribution.

Professor Sadaf Farooqi, co-lead author from the University of Cambridge, said: "As we uncover more and more variants and genetic links, we will gain a better basic understanding of obesity, which in turn will open doors to areas of clinically relevant research."

It is thought that one in seven children in England are currently affected by obesity, according to NHS data, with this figure set to increase in the coming years.