"New Genetic Discovery: Link Between BSN Variants and Adult Obesity Risk"
Scientists have discovered a "fat gene," known as the BSM gene or "Bassoon," which increases the risk of adult obesity sixfold and is exclusively associated with adulthood obesity, not lifelong obesity. Another gene, ABPA1, was also found to increase the risk of adult obesity twofold. The faulty genes may interfere with the brain's ability to control hunger and appetite, potentially leading to weight gain. While the gene is rare, it has a significant impact on body size, and future studies will focus on understanding why it only takes effect in adulthood.