Podcast Summary
Dogs and humans obesity similarities: Study of POMC gene in Labradors and flat-coated Retrievers reveals genetic link to food-seeking behavior, reflecting human obesity crisis where environmental and genetic factors contribute to overeating
The parallels between humans and dogs, specifically in the context of obesity, can provide valuable insights. A study at Cambridge University discovered a mutation in the POMC gene that might explain the food-seeking behavior of Labradors and flat-coated Retrievers, with about half of these breeds carrying one or two copies of this gene. This research not only sheds light on their behavior but also mirrors the human obesity crisis, where environmental and genetic factors contribute to overeating. As we learn more about our pets, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and the challenges we face in maintaining a healthy weight.
POMC gene mutation in flat-coated dogs: Researchers found a genetic mutation in flat-coated dogs that makes them more prone to obesity by altering how their brains process signals related to eating and energy expenditure, causing them to be hungrier and burn fewer calories.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a genetic mutation in flat-coated dogs that makes them more prone to obesity. This mutation, in the POMC gene, alters how the dog's brain processes signals related to eating and energy expenditure. Dogs with this mutation are not only hungrier but also burn fewer calories in their daily lives. This finding sheds light on the complex nature of obesity and could help us understand similar issues in humans. The study also provides reassurance for pet owners who struggle to keep their dogs at a healthy weight, as it may not always be due to negligence or lack of effort.
Genetics and Food Motivation in Dogs: A single genetic variant in dogs can significantly impact their relationship with food and energy metabolism, making some breeds more food-motivated and willing to work for food. Similar genetic variations contribute to obesity in humans, which is a significant global issue with substantial genetic influence.
A single genetic variant in dogs can significantly impact their relationship with food and energy metabolism. This was discovered in the St. John's Water Dog breed, which was traditionally used as fishermen's dogs in icy waters. The mutation, present in about two-thirds of guide dogs and a quarter of pet lavidores, might make dogs more food-motivated and willing to work for food. This discovery sheds light on how genetic variations can profoundly alter a dog's energy handling and food intake. Similar variations occur in the human population, contributing to the obesity crisis, which is now a significant global issue. About one in eight people worldwide have obesity, with one in four in the UK and one in three in the US. The genetic influence on obesity is substantial, with heritability ranging from 40 to 70%. Most of these genes act within the brain and influence behavior around food. While the genetic drivers for obesity have always been present, the ability to act on them has changed due to environmental factors like easy access to food.
Brain's food intake regulation: Our brain uses long-term and short-term energy signals from fat and gut to regulate food intake, influenced by hormones and genes. Personal responsibility and addressing the environment are crucial for body weight regulation.
Our brain relies on two types of information to regulate our food intake: long-term energy signals from fat and short-term energy signals from our gut. These signals influence our behavior around food, and both are influenced by hormones. The complex interplay of genes and environment plays a role in body weight regulation, with some people having significant effects from mutations in specific genes. For example, a mutation in the POMC receptor gene can lead to an average weight difference of 18 kilos (40 pounds) in humans. While personal responsibility is important, obesity is a public health issue and addressing the environment is crucial to tackling this problem. The constant exposure to unhealthy food options outside the home makes it challenging for individuals to make healthy choices, highlighting the need for systemic solutions.
Genetics and Food Consumption in Obesity: Understanding genetics and biology plays a significant role in addressing obesity in both humans and pets. Some pets, like Labradors, may have genetic variants that make weight loss challenging. Pet owners have more control over their pets' diets and can help manage weight gain through proper nutrition and exercise.
Understanding the complex relationship between genetics, biology, and food consumption is crucial when it comes to addressing issues related to obesity and weight gain, not just for humans but also for our pets. While we may have different experiences with food and weight, it's essential to remember that someone else's experience might be vastly different. In the case of dogs, like Nicola's Labrador, having certain genetic variants can make it harder for them to keep excess weight off. However, as pet owners, we have more control over our pets' diets than we do over our own. Unfortunately, societal measures to support individuals in maintaining a healthy weight are often lacking. As we navigate the increasingly complex relationship between humans and technology, it's vital to remember the importance of self-compassion and understanding the unique challenges each of us faces.