Genome-wide screens for gene polymorphisms associated with a predisposition to obesity have identified several loci. Which of the following hormone genes could be expected to most likely lead to an increased propensity for obesity if it were defective?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Central anorexigenic effects of OXM involve induced release of anorexigenic peptides and suppression of the orexigenic effects of circulating ghrelin. Of potential significance to the treatment of obesity, when OXM is administered intravenously to human subjects there is an observed reduction in food intake. Additionally, when OXM is administered subcutaneously to overweight and obese subjects over a period of 4 weeks there is a significant reduction in body weight. Thus, defective OXM function would likely result in an exacerbation of the propensity to obesity.

Genome-Wide Screens for Gene Polymorphisms Associated with a Predisposition to Obesity