Cellular and molecular aspects of weight regulation: the adipose tissue

Research output: ThesisDoctoral ThesisInternal

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Abstract

This dissertation studied the effects of a low-calorie diet on fat molecules and the impact of genes on body weight regulation. We discovered two different genetic variations (the FTO gene in men and the MMP2 gene in women) that predict a weight gain of at least 8 kilos over the course of a decade. Furthermore, it was shown that fat cells increase their ability to include higher levels of glucose and fatty acids following weight loss achieved with a diet. After three weeks, fat cells were found to be craving fat, a mechanism provoking old eating habits (the so-called yo-yo effect). Certain target groups, including people having a genetic predisposition, should therefore receive improved weight-loss and/or weight-maintenance counselling.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution
  • Maastricht University
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Mariman, Edwin, Supervisor
  • Wang, Ping, Co-Supervisor
Award date19 Jun 2015
Place of PublicationMaastricht
Publisher
Print ISBNs9789462990692
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015

Keywords

  • obesity
  • diet
  • yo-yo effect
  • fat molecules
  • genetic predisposition

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