Epigenetic changes from obesity can have long-term effects, altering gene activity and fat cell function even after weight loss. In a recent study published in Nature , a team of scientists examined how adipose tissue, specifically fat cells, retains transcriptional changes even after significant weight loss, potentially leading to a predisposition for weight regain. Using advanced ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequencing techniques, the researchers investigated these lasting cellular and genetic alterations better to understand the persistent effects of obesity on metabolic health.
Background Obesity poses serious health risks and almost inevitably leads to metabolic diseases related to insulin regulation and cardiovascular disease. Effective weight loss, whether through diet, lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, or a combination of these approaches, is critical in managing obesity. However, a recurring challenge in obesity treatment is the ‘yo-yo’ phenomenon, where individuals regain weight after initial loss.
Studies suggest that this weight regain may result from a form of persistent metabolic memory even after weight reduction and may manifest in various tissues, such as adipose tissue, liver, and immune cells. Furthermore, epigenetic mechanisms, which influence how genes are expressed without changing the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence, may play a crucial role in sustaining these effects. About the study Despite recent advancements, the exact cellular mechanisms .
