The problem of obesity is alarming, especially in Australia. Females in their teen years often go on diet to appear slim and attractive. The worry of getting fat from eating too much is everywhere. Pretty sure majority of people wish that one day, we are able to eat without having to worry what we ingested are going to do to our looks. Having this dream, is it possible that one day, humans are able to eat but not get fat?
UK researchers have successfully found the gene that is responsible for turning carbohydrates into fat. This gene is known as DNA-PK, and is known to regulate the process of turning carbohydrates into fat in the liver. Experiment with mice has been conducted and shown that DNA-PK deficient mice stayed slim even when fed with the same amount of food as the control group. Results showed that the DNA-PK disabled mice had 40% less fat than the control group. Moreover, the scientists also discovered that the mice with DNA-PK gene removed had lower level of blood cholesterol as well. Lowered blood cholesterol means that the risk of heart disease is reduced as well.
Since both mice and humans have the same gene, scientists believe that this gene discovery has provided new clues to how the body metabolises carbohydrates and their contribution to obesity. Also, this gene discovery might provide a new solution to obesity and heart disease.
Available online at: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/20/2521588.htm
