Researchers at Washington State University have identified distinct epigenetic markers in the cheek cells of obese twins, which are not present in their non-obese counterparts, indicating a potential molecular inclination towards obesity.
A new study has found that certain molecular indicators in cheek cells could serve as predictors of obesity, thereby opening the door to early intervention and a pivot to preventative health strategies.
The predisposition to obesity might be embedded in the cellular molecular mechanisms, as suggested by findings from Washington State University researchers.
In a pilot study examining 22 pairs of twins, researchers detected a unique epigenetic pattern in the buccal cells of obese participants which was absent in their slimmer siblings. This discovery might pave the way for a straightforward cheek swab to test for obesity-related biomarkers, thus fostering earlier prevention in a condition prevalent among 50% of adults in the U.S., according to the study’s findings.
“Obesity seems to be more intricate than mere food intake. Our research points to an inherent vulnerability to the disease and molecular markers that vary accordingly,” stated Michael Skinner, a WSU professor of biological sciences and the lead author of the research published in the journal Epigenetics.
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The Link Between Epigenetic Markers and Obesity
This study concentrated on twin subjects to minimize genetic factors and instead highlight epigenetic mechanisms, which are distinct from DNA yet influence gene expression. The discovery of the epigenetic signature in cheek cells, rather than adipose cells, implies that such obesity markers could be widespread throughout the body.
Skinner noted that the systemic presence of the signature hints at an early-life event that may have triggered a predisposition to obesity in one twin but not the other. This could also suggest that the susceptibility was inherited by one twin.
For the study, Skinner collaborated with principal investigator Glen Duncan, who is the director of the Washington State Twin Registry at WSU. They selected 22 pairs of twins, both identical and fraternal, who showed a clear discrepancy in body weight: one sibling had a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines as obese, while the other had a normal BMI of 25 or below.
The team examined cheek cell samples from these twins and identified consistent epigenetic alterations in DNA methylation regions—sections where methyl groups attach to DNA, thus controlling gene activity—in the obese siblings.
Prospects for Future Research and Preventative Action
To validate a dependable obesity biomarker test, larger-scale research would be required.
The objective would be to detect individuals prone to obesity at an early stage, allowing health professionals to intervene with potential lifestyle modifications, medications, or both, as highlighted by Duncan.
“The overarching aim is to implement preventative solutions rather than resorting to treatment post-diagnosis,” he explained. “Preventing a disease is fundamentally more effective than treating it post-onset.”
Citation: “Epigenome-wide association study of systemic effects of obesity susceptibility in human twins” by Glen E. Duncan, Ally Avery, Millissia Ben Maamar, Eric E. Nilsson, Daniel Beck, and Michael K. Skinner, dated 23 October 2023, published in Epigenetics.
DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2268834
The study received funding from the John Templeton Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about epigenetic obesity markers
What did the Washington State University study find about obesity?
The study identified unique epigenetic signatures in the cheek cells of obese twins that were not present in their non-obese siblings, suggesting a molecular predisposition to obesity.
How can the findings of this study potentially impact obesity prevention?
By identifying molecular markers that predict obesity, the findings could lead to early interventions and a shift towards preventative measures in healthcare, possibly through a simple cheek swab test.
What are epigenetic signatures, and why are they important in this obesity study?
Epigenetic signatures are patterns of molecular changes that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. They are important in this study as they may reveal mechanisms of obesity that go beyond genetic predispositions.
What makes twin studies valuable in research on obesity?
Twin studies allow researchers to control for genetic differences, thereby focusing on epigenetic and environmental factors. This approach can clarify how non-genetic factors contribute to obesity.
What are the implications of finding an obesity signature in cheek cells?
The presence of an obesity signature in cheek cells suggests that the molecular basis for obesity may be systemic, not limited to fat cells, indicating potential early-life influences on obesity risk.
More about epigenetic obesity markers
- Epigenetics of Obesity in Twins Study
- Washington State Twin Registry
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Obesity Facts
- Understanding Epigenetics
- John Templeton Foundation
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
5 comments
interesting findings here, its kinda cool to think that somthing as simple as a cheek swab could tell us if were more likely to be obese…science is amazing isnt it
so now they can predict obesity with a cheek cell test? wow, what will they think of next…just hope it becomes accessible and not another expensive test
gotta say this study has potential, but theres a long way to go from a small twin study to actual public health practice, but still a step in the right direction i guess
Epigenetics is complex stuff, but this study seems to have nailed it down to something tangible. Excited to see where this research leads. Could be a game changer in fighting obesity
i read the article twice and im still fascinated, can you imagine if we started testing kids early on for obesity risks. It could totally change the healthcare game