Why are some individuals prone to obesity and yet others stay lean even when they live in a similarly 'obesogenic' environment? Obesity is highly heritable as are related metabolic traits. We study obesity genetics 'in the round' starting from genetic discovery studies using GWAS and other epidemiological approaches working with 'big data'. We try to ensure we maximise the value of our research for both veterinary medicine and to better understand human biology and medical science.
Capitalising on my background as a vet, we start with animal genetics – dogs, horses and farm animals are excellent models because selective breeding means they show phenotypes of interest and their genomes are conducive to gene mapping. We follow up genetics with cell studies to understand mechanism, focussing on neuronal development, cell signalling and adipocyte biology, including with transcriptomics. We also study whole body physiology in pet dogs volunteered by their owners.
It's important to us that our findings have a clinical impact - you can find some of our advice for owners of obesity prone pets, informed by our research, here.
