Gene Variation May Cause Overeating

Scientists from the University of Buffalo (UB), NY, have suggested that motivation to overeat might be genetically determined. In their study of 29 obese and 45 non-obese people, they uncovered a gene variation that causes fewer dopamine receptors in the brain.

The variation is labeled the TaqI A1 allele and according to the study it results in a 30%–40% reduction in the density of the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and weaker dopamine signaling.

Dopamine is a brain chemical that is usually associated with the "pleasure center" in the brain.

The study from UB suggests that people who are heavier are more likely to have the gene variation TaqI A1 allele. This makes them more motivated to overeat than people without the variation.

The scientists acknowledge that the group of people studied is very small. To fully understand the link between the Taq1 A1 variation and obesity, a much larger, more diverse group of people would need to be studied.

The researchers do hope that their study will lead someday to the ability to find people at risk for obesity and prescribe individualized treatment plans for them

Read the study from UB...

• Food Reinforcement, the Dopamine D2 Receptor Genotype, and Energy Intake in Obese and Nonobese Humans