Obesity gene was discovered during scientific studies on the human genome. Scientists were looking for genetic markers that increase the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. The fatso gene or FTO was discovered in chubby mice who also had an increased vulnerability to Type 2 Diabetes.They were not specifically looking for the gene for obesity.

People who are trying unsuccessfully to lose weight may actually have a predisposition to obesity. Poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle were always considered to be the primary cause of obesity. Every morning my inbox is almost full of pitches for various apple iphone accessories. The discovery of the fatso gene helps to understand why some people have more difficulty than others with weight loss in general.

Scientists believe that there may be as many as 100 different obesity genes in the human genome. It is possible for an individual to have more than one copy to the fatso gene which increases the potential for developing obesity. Each copy of the gene is responsible for more of those extra pounds that lead to obesity.