NIDDK Sponsors Obesity Genetics Meeting

Leading researchers in the field of human obesity genetics from around the world gathered outside Washington, DC, on July 14, 2000 to share information on their individual studies and to discuss the possibility of enhancing collaboration among investigators in the field. Participants reviewed the status of current studies that track phentotypes (the physical manifestations of an individual’s genetic makeup) and genotypes (the genetic constitution of an individual) in nuclear families and in extended multi-generational families from many different countries and cultures. The ultimate goal of research in this area is to uncover genetic factors that influence human obesity and to identify potential interventions.

Sponsored by NIDDK’s Division of Nutrition Research Coordination and Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, the meeting addressed scientific issues in gene mapping, practical considerations in pooling data, and the pros and cons of creating a consortium of researchers. Participants agreed that a formalized sharing of information would enhance scientific understanding of the genetics of obesity. NIDDK will take the lead in guiding this process. s