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Fat Cell Numbers Don't Bulge: Study

Fat cells remain stable throughout life

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted May 5, 2008 7:44 AM CDT
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(Newser) – The number of fat cells is set for a lifetime in childhood, a new study indicates. The latest research into obesity reveals fundamental new insights into why some people become fat and why it is so hard for overweight people to keep excess pounds off—even after a successful diet, reports the Daily Telegraph. New findings suggest the number of fat cells in a person remains the same even after weight is lost.

Now groups are examining potential compounds that might regulate the creation or regeneration of fat cells, said one of the researchers in the study, published in the journal Nature. A separate team of researchers have also made an important breakthrough in identifying a gene sequence linked to excess weight and a tendency to develop type 2 diabetes.

Scientists believe they have unlocked some of the deepest secrets of obesity.
Scientists believe they have unlocked some of the deepest secrets of obesity.   (Getty Images)
Scientists believe they have uncovered why obese patients have difficulty keeping weight off even after an apparently successful diet.
Scientists believe they have uncovered why obese patients have difficulty keeping weight off even after an apparently successful diet.   (Magnum Photos)
The number of fat cells - set in childhood - remain the same through our lives regardless of diets or surgery, according to new research.
The number of fat cells - set in childhood - remain the same through our lives regardless of diets or surgery, according to new research.   (KRT Photos)
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Fat cells renewed yearly in process that may lead to treatment
Bloomberg

Fat cell numbers 'set for life'
BBC

A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips
Science News

 
obesity • Imperial College London • Karlolinksa Institute • fat cells • radioactive isotopes • Jaspal Kooner • British Heart Foundation • Pasteur Institute

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