# Exploring the Association Between DTC Obesity-Related Gene Polymorphisms and Obesity Risk Factors in Koreans: Focus on BDNF

## TL;DR

This study explores how a specific obesity-related gene (BDNF) is associated with obesity risk factors in Koreans, suggesting potential for personalized nutrition strategies.

## Contribution

The study provides Korean-specific evidence linking the BDNF rs6265 gene variant to obesity-related indicators and dietary factors.

## Key findings

- BDNF A allele carriers showed higher waist-to-hip ratio, ALT levels, and sodium intake compared to GG carriers.
- BDNF rs6265 was independently associated with obesity indicators like BMI and RMR after adjusting for age, sex, and dietary factors.
- Genotype-obesity interactions were observed for dietary fiber, cholesterol, and PUFA in Koreans.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Among more than 300 candidate genes for obesity, FTO, MC4R, and BDNF have been approved for DTC genetic testing. However, population-specific evidence supporting their relevance to obesity-related phenotypes in Koreans remains limited. Methods: A total of 231 healthy adults aged 19–64 years were recruited between March and May 2024. Anthropometric and clinical measurements, genotyping, dietary intake, and questionnaires on socioeconomic status, family history, and lifestyle behaviors were obtained. Associations between genotypes and obesity-related phenotypes were evaluated using ANOVA and ANCOVA, multivariable-adjusted models and multicollinearity analysis-based stepwise regression. Results: In Koreans, MAFs for FTO (3 SNPs), MC4R rs17782313 and BDNF rs6265 were 13–16%, 27.1% and 47.4%, respectively. OB frequency (%) differed significantly between BDNF GG and A allele carriers (p < 0.05). Compared to GG, BDNF A allele carriers showed higher WHR, ALT, HbA1c and sodium intake (p < 0.05). BDNF A allele carriers were observed to have higher drinking frequency and elevated ALT levels. Significant genotype–obesity interactions were identified for RMR/BW status, dietary fiber, Vit E, folate, P, K, cholesterol, and PUFA (p < 0.05). Among A allele carriers, OB-related indicators (BMI, RMR, WHR) were independently associated with age, sex, RMR, SBP, ALT, leptin, and dietary intakes of Vit A and sugars. Conclusions: These findings support the relevance of BDNF rs6265 in obesity phenotypes among Korean adults and provide Korean-specific evidence for genotype-based nutrition strategies. Given the cross-sectional study, the interpretation of personalized nutrition approaches for genetic risk carriers should be made with caution.