What is it about?
Obesity-related infertility is a growing concern affecting both men and women, with complex interactions between metabolic, hormonal, and genetic factors. Recent advances have identified several genes that may contribute to impaired reproductive function in individuals with obesity. These genes are involved in pathways regulating insulin resistance, inflammation, leptin signaling, steroidogenesis, and gonadotropin secretion. Key genetic variants in FTO, LEP, LEPR, MC4R, PPARγ, and INSR have been implicated in both obesity and reproductive dysfunction, underscoring their dual role in metabolic and reproductive health. Despite emerging evidence, the genetic mechanisms underlying obesity-induced infertility remain underexplored. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the genetic links between obesity and infertility, highlight emerging candidate genes, and emphasize the need for integrated genomic and clinical research to improve diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment strategies.
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Why is it important?
Highlights how specific genes contribute to both obesity and impaired reproductive function. Supports the development of gene-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for obesity-related infertility. Stresses the importance of multi-disciplinary, genomic, and epidemiological studies to close the existing knowledge gap.
Perspectives
Understanding the genetic basis of obesity-related infertility is essential for developing effective diagnostic tools and targeted interventions. Genes regulating appetite control, adipogenesis, insulin sensitivity, and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function appear to play pivotal roles in the obesity–infertility nexus. Variants in genes such as FTO, LEP, and PPARγ not only predispose individuals to obesity but also interfere with hormonal balance, ovulatory function, and spermatogenesis. However, current research is fragmented, often limited by small sample sizes and lack of ethnic diversity. Bridging this knowledge gap requires large-scale, multi-ethnic genetic studies and systems biology approaches to understand gene-environment interactions. Integrating genetic screening into clinical practice could help personalize fertility treatments and preventative strategies for obese individuals facing infertility.
Dr.Ramakrishnan Veerabathiran
Chettinad Health City
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Genes linked to obesity-related infertility: bridging the knowledge gap, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, March 2024, Wolters Kluwer Health,
DOI: 10.1097/rd9.0000000000000096.
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