Obesity Causes: Some Overweight Humans Share Common Gene With Always Hungry Labradors

Some obese humans and dogs that are constantly hungry share a common genetic trait that makes them more prone to weight gain.

A new study published in the journal Science has identified a mutation in the DENND1B gene that affects appetite regulation, making individuals more prone to overeating and obesity. The findings suggest that similar biological mechanisms influence appetite and weight regulation across humans and dogs.

The DENND1B gene helps control how cells process and transport proteins, playing a role in immune function. Recent research has shown that mutations in the gene affect appetite regulation, leading to an increase in food intake and making weight gain more likely.

Scientists at the University of Cambridge identified a specific genetic variant in DENND1B that impacts appetite control, likely by affecting the leptin-melanocortin pathway—a system that regulates hunger and satiety.

This mutation was found in both humans and Labrador Retrievers, a breed already known for its tendency to become overweight. Dogs carrying this genetic variant had about 8% more body fat than those without it, highlighting the gene’s role in obesity risk.

The study suggests that similar biological mechanisms influence hunger-driven weight gain across species, providing new insights into the genetic factors behind obesity. Dr. Eleanor Raffan, the study’s lead researcher from the University of Cambridge, noted that the results highlight how genetics can predispose individuals to obesity.

"By studying dogs, we've honed in on some interesting new biology here," Raffan said, per BBC.

"It all speaks to the same important bit of biology, which is that obesity is not about having low willpower...some people are prone to weight gain because they have a genetic risk which increases their responsiveness to food and their appetite.

This goes for dogs and humans alike--they have a genetic drive to overeat."

However, Dr. Raffan pointed out that while genes play a role, one's lifestyle, like diet and exercise, plays a crucial part in weight management.

The new findings support previous research that linked other genes, such as POMC, to obesity in Labradors and some humans. Researchers hope that further studies on DENND1B could lead to new approaches to treating obesity.

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