Obesity, a multifactorial chronic condition, has been the subject of study in genomic endocrinology, a field that investigates the relationship between genes, hormones and health. Obesity is characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat, resulting from a prolonged energy imbalance between intake and caloric expenditure. Several factors contribute to this condition, including genetic predisposition, inadequate eating habits, and sedentary lifestyle.
Leptin, a hormone produced by adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and energy metabolism. It acts on the brain, signaling satiety and modulating caloric expenditure. However, in obese individuals, leptin resistance may compromise its action, leading to increased food intake and difficulty in weight loss.
Another hormone relevant in the regulation of appetite is ghrelin, produced mainly in the stomach. Its levels increase before meals, stimulating hunger, and decrease after eating, signaling satiety. Ghrelin is also involved in the regulation of body weight and energy metabolism.
Genomic endocrinology seeks to identify genes and genetic variants associated with obesity, with the aim of developing personalized therapies and preventive interventions. The manipulation of genes related to the production and action of leptin and ghrelin, through techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 and gene therapy, represents a promising approach in the treatment of obesity.
However, the complexity of obesity, influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors, requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach. Combining genomic therapies with lifestyle interventions such as balanced diet and regular physical activity is critical to successful treatment and prevention of obesity.
In short, genomic endocrinology offers a new perspective in the fight against obesity, allowing the identification of therapeutic targets and the development of personalized treatments. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of body weight and the manipulation of genes related to hormones such as leptin and ghrelin represent promising advances in this area. However, it is crucial to integrate this approach with other interventions, such as lifestyle changes, to achieve effective and long-lasting results in obesity control.
Reference:
PEREIRA NEVES, Rodrigo Fernandes; RODRIGUES, Fabiano de Abreu Agrela; KOSTIC, Velibor. Genomic Endocrinology: Genes Manipulation Of Obesity-Related Hormones. Boaciencia Magazine. Salud Y Medio Ambiente, v. 4, no. 1, pp. 20–31, 2024.
