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DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1241831
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York
FTO – Friend or Foe?
Publication History
received 20.07.2009
accepted 08.10.2009
Publication Date:
18 November 2009 (online)

Abstract
Fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) is the most relevant polygene for obesity to date. It has been identified by genome wide association studies concerning body weight regulation. However, its functional relevance for the pathogenesis of obesity remains elusive. Studies in rodents provide data pointing to a central role of FTO through regulation of food intake. In addition, peripheral effects of FTO are also discussed in the literature. This review highlights the possible relevance of FTO for weight regulation and obesity development in central and peripheral tissues with a special focus on adipose tissue.
Key words
adipose tissue - obesity - body weight
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Correspondence
Dr. D. Tews
Division of Pediatric
Endocrinology and Diabetes
Endocrine Research Laboratory
Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine
University of Ulm
Eythstraße24
89075 Ulm
Germany
Phone: +49 731 500 57264
Fax: +49 731 500 57246
Email: daniel.tews@uniklinik-ulm.de