Researchers at the University of Pretoria (UP) have found a gene that could play a key role in diet-related obesity.
The gene, called Slc7a8, appears to affect how the body stores fat, especially when eating a high-fat diet.
Understanding this gene could lead to better obesity treatments.
“Obesity doesn’t affect everyone the same way,” explains Professor Melvin Ambele from UP. “Early weight gain already impacts organs, which can later lead to serious health problems.”
In the study, scientists used two groups of mice: one with the Slc7a8 gene and one without it. Both groups were fed either a high-fat or a normal diet for 14 weeks.
Mice without the gene (knockout mice) who ate a high-fat diet gained less weight and had less fat in their bodies and organs compared to those with the gene.
These knockout mice also showed better blood sugar control and less fat buildup in organs like the liver, lungs, heart, and kidneys.
This suggests that removing or blocking the Slc7a8 gene could help prevent obesity and related diseases like fatty liver disease and diabetes.
The researchers also found less inflammation in the fat tissue of mice without the gene, pointing to the gene’s role in inflammation and overall fat health.
This makes Slc7a8 a promising target for future obesity treatments that could be more effective and safer than current drugs.
Professor Ambele adds that many obesity drugs today don’t work well in the long term and often cause side effects.
Targeting Slc7a8 might offer a better, more lasting solution by tackling the root cause of fat storage.
The study also stressed the importance of including both male and female animals in research.
Obesity affects sexes differently due to hormones and body functions, so studying both gives a fuller picture and helps design treatments that work for everyone.
Obesity is a growing global problem.
One in eight people worldwide is obese. In Africa, it’s one in five adults, and in South Africa, it’s one in four.
A recent survey showed that half of all adults in South Africa are overweight or obese.
“Obesity not only poses serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of developing cardio metabolic diseases, but it also has an impact on the labour force and economy,” Prof Ambele explains.
“Despite these challenges, there is hope. Obesity is preventable, and with the right strategies, individuals, communities, and governments can all contribute to combating this epidemic.”
In the meantime, the researchers suggest adopting the following measures to work towards creating a healthier future where obesity is no longer a widespread threat but a manageable condition.
Nutritional interventions:
- Limit energy intake from fats and sugars.
- Increase consumption of fruit, vegetables, legumes, wholegrains and other nutrient-rich foods.
- Engage in regular physical activity to balance energy intake and expenditure.
Government interventions:
- Introduce strong policies involving key sectors like health, agriculture and urban planning.
- Ensure the availability and affordability of healthy foods for all consumers.
- Restrict the marketing of high-fat and high-sugar foods and those with a high salt content, particularly marketing that targets children and teenagers.
- Implement sugar taxes and salt reduction mandates to discourage the consumption of unhealthy foods.
- Promote the development of recreational areas to encourage physical activity.
