Genetic and Molecular Mechanisms of Obesity

Dear Colleagues,

Globally, the prevalence of obesity is rising, impacting 159 million children and adolescents and 879 million adults. The risk of cardiovascular diseases (including hypertension, stroke, and heart attacks), autoimmune diseases, some types of cancer, insulin resistance, diabetes, and other comorbidities is increased in those with excess body fat already in childhood. Despite the significant health and economic costs associated with obesity, the molecular mechanisms underpinning its etiology are still poorly understood. The role of the genetic background has been described in the past as a key player in the regulation of the balance between caloric intake and energy expenditure. However, a rising number of new genetic variants and polymorphisms continue to be reported in association with obesity risk. The regulation of adipogenesis by long non-coding RNAs, oxidative stress brought on by pro-inflammatory adipokines released by adipose tissue, epigenetic modifications, and alterations in the gut microbiome that result in disturbed glucose and lipid homeostasis and satiety signaling are among the mechanisms linked to obesity. The aim of this Special Issue is to collect original and review articles to provide the most updated molecular knowledge in the field of obesity.

Prof. Dr. Maria Elisabeth Street
Dr. Giuseppina Rosaria Umano
Guest Editors

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