Protection Against Obesity and Atherosclerosis

Good news! Inhibiting the myostatin gene may someday help you lose weight and become healthier!

Individuals who are obese run the risk of developing many medical problems such as stroke and heart disease. While many obese individuals struggle with their weight every year, there may be some advancement in genetic research that may be able to counteract some of the consequences of obesity such as Atherosclerosis.

In a recent article, Protecting Against Obesity and Atherosclerosis By Blocking A Muscle Growth-Limited Hormone, researchers have been conducting studies on mice to see if mutations in the myostatin gene can produce less fat and more muscle mass. The most recent study looked at the process of inhibiting myostatin in mice to see if they would be resistant to diet induced obesity, which would also prevent atherosclerosis. The results were that the mice had lower body fat, lower blood sugar levels, less “bad” cholesterol and total cholesterol, which all contribute to the prevention of atherosclerosis.

With these results and further research, scientists can start to develop treatment for individuals who suffer from obesity to give them the ability to lose the fat and gain muscle easier than before while, at the same time, preventing obesity caused illnesses such as atherosclerosis.

Do you know what this could mean for millions? Of course, there will be people who won’t believe in it and never try it until a medical problem scares them. Then of course, there will be people looking for a way to use it as a diet aid. However, either way, the benefits would mean great things for the health of people who struggle with their weight even though they try to diet and exercise and know their health is at risk.

What are your thoughts on this new advancement? Do you believe people will be open to new treatment such as this? Do you think people will abuse it just to lose weight? Or will they rely upon it instead of dieting and exercise?

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/3059349393/3434095379/)

June 19th, 2009 by Marcelina Hardy | Posted in Genetics and Society | (1)