The Role of FTO Gene Polymorphism in Weight Loss Program: An Evidence-Based Case Report
Maggie Nathania, Lily Indriani Octovia
Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - Ciptomangunkusumo National Hospital
Jl. Salemba Raya No.5, Jakarta Pusat 10430, Indonesia
Abstract
Background: Obesity and its comorbidities are major health problems throughout the world, which continue to increase. “Fat mass and obesity-associated” (FTO) gene is the strongest genetic predictor of body weight, which alters the regulation of IRX3 and IRX5 homeobox gene expression, affecting the mitochondrial fat metabolism. It is hoped that nutrigenomic findings can answer the urgent need to develop more effective anti-obesity strategies, especially in solving various individual responses to treatment variability. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of lifestyle modification on weight loss in patients with FTO gene polymorphisms. Methods: Literature searching was performed on Pubmed, Science Direct, and Cochrane according to the clinical query. Screening on title, abstract, and full-text was based on eligibility criteria (systematic review or meta-analysis of clinical trials, suitability with the clinical question, English language, full-text availability, and human studies), followed by duplication filter and critical appraisal. Results: A meta-analysis article was obtained with FTO AA genotype results, having significantly greater weight loss compared to TT genotypes with weighted mean difference -0,44 kg (95% CI: 0,09 to 0,79; P=0,015). Conclusion: Individuals carrying homozygous FTO obesity predisposition can lose more weight through lifestyle modification than non-carriers, but these differences might be too small to be clinically important. A further consideration is needed to determine the benefit of FTO gene testing over the cost. In carriers of the TT genotype, more aggressive anti-obesity treatment is needed.
Keywords: nutrigenomics, genetic, obesity, nutrition, FTO
Topic: Cellular, Tissue and Genetic Engineering