This book comprehensively accounts the current understanding of genetic mechanisms of obesity by analyzing obesity phenotypes and genotypes and, gene polymorphisms and mutations, and current results from animal model research and genetic studies in human models. By presenting the impact of genetic factors in the development of obesity and key molecules related to the pathophysiology of the disease, this source hopes to pinpoint new pathways for the prevention and management of obesity in various populations.

Obesity is a disease of society and economic transition spreading at an epidemic pace throughout the world. According to the World Health Organization, obesity is defined as an increased or abnormal accumulation of body fat mass to the extent that individual's health will be negatively affected. Overweight is thus being considered as top at risk condition in the world and it is mandatory to identify the physiopathological causes involved in adipose tissue enlargement and related metabolic and cardiovascular health disorders.This volume provides the most up to date insights into the biology of a complex endocrine organ: the adipose tissue.