FTO Gene Variants and Body Composition in 70-Year-Olds
Author Information
Author(s): Jacobsson Josefin A., Almén Markus Sällman, Benedict Christian, Hedberg Lilia A., Michaëlsson Karl, Brooks Samantha, Kullberg Joel, Axelsson Tomas, Johansson Lars, Ahlström Håkan, Fredriksson Robert, Lind Lars, Schiöth Helgi B.
Primary Institution: Uppsala University
Hypothesis
Is the FTO gene associated with body composition-related phenotypes in elderly humans?
Conclusion
The study found that FTO variants do not significantly influence body composition in elderly individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- Previous studies linked FTO variants to obesity in children and young adults.
- Neither single SNPs nor combinations were significantly associated with body composition in the elderly.
- Findings suggest that the influence of FTO on body composition diminishes with age.
Takeaway
The FTO gene, which is linked to obesity in younger people, doesn't seem to affect body weight or fat in older adults.
Methodology
Cross-sectional analysis of body composition and energy intake in 985 elderly participants, genotyping 733 SNPs in the FTO gene.
Potential Biases
Self-reported food intake may lead to underreporting, especially in overweight individuals.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to other ethnicities as participants were predominantly Caucasian.
Participant Demographics
492 men and 493 women, all aged 70 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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