Author Archives: Marisa Wexler MS

Genetic susceptibility toward obesity has little impact on whether lifestyle interventions aimed at weight loss are successful in children who are overweight or obese, a new study suggests. The study, “Obesity Genes and Weight Loss During Lifestyle Intervention in Children With Obesity,” was published in the journal…

People who are genetically predisposed toward obesity or having high levels of so-called “bad” cholesterol — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — are at increased risk of contracting COVID-19, a study reported. The study, “Causal Inference for Genetic Obesity, Cardiometabolic Profile and COVID-19 Susceptibility: A Mendelian Randomization…

People whose genetics predispose them towards obesity are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD), a new study indicates. Notably, the findings suggest that obesity can cause CKD primarily by increasing the risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. The study, “Conventional and…

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)’s RareLaunch training program will host two days of free virtual workshops in December, with the aim of empowering leaders to start non-profit organizations and research programs to help people with rare diseases. “The RareLaunch program is central to NORD’s mission and history — community…

A tiny RNA molecule, or microRNA, called miR-128-1 helps to regulate metabolism and could be a treatment target in obesity and related conditions, a study in mice suggests. These findings also shed new light on how certain human traits have evolved. The study, “A MicroRNA Linking…

The heritability of obesity-related traits is similar in Japanese and European populations but the way these traits are interrelated may be different, a study suggests — pointing to a need to further research how genetics regulates obesity in distinct populations. The study, “Genomic Heritabilities and Correlations…

A majority of rare disease patients using telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic thought the experience positive, and many would like the option of continuing its use in future appointments, a series of surveys found. The surveys were conducted by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and involved more than 800…

Brain cells with gene activity changes related to obesity were identified in a new study, providing a starting point for future research into how different cell types affect this complex trait. The study, “Genetic mapping of etiologic brain cell types for obesity,” was published in the journal…

Targeting a gene called ALK may prevent weight gain and could lead to effective therapies to combat obesity, a large study in humans and animals suggests. The study, “Identification of ALK in Thinness,” was published in the journal Cell. Genetics play a substantial role in…

Having a greater genetic likelihood for high blood pressure and obesity may correlate with a shorter lifespan, a large international study reports. This type of analysis could help identify those most likely to benefit from medical or lifestyle interventions, according to the scientists. The study, “Trans-biobank analysis…