Metabolic study - gene links with obesity

Overweight volunteers (ie body mass index > 30) are needed to participate in a study screening for a gene which links to obesity.

During a preliminary visit, a blood test and various body measurements will be taken to assess your suitability for the study. If you match our criteria, we would invite you back for a full metabolic assessment.

Why are we doing this study?

The gene in question (MC4R) is present in up to 6% of overweight people - and is associated with greater appetite, predisposing people to obesity from childhood. The gene is also associated with lower blood pressure than might be expected .

There are different kinds of obesity - with some people remaining metabolically healthy, while others become susceptible to high cholesterol, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. We are interested in finding out as much as possible about why such differences occur.

Our research might help future screening of obese people to identify those who are predisposed to illness, and those who are not.

Anticipated recruitment is April 2011 to December 2012

Enquiries:
Dr Daniel Chen  (02) 9295 8557 or d.chen@garvan.org.au
Research Nurse Vanessa Travers (02) 9295 8232 or v.travers@garvan.org.au
Research Nurse Jennifer Evans (02) 9295 8215 or j.evans@garvan.org.au