Our study of energy metabolism among Samoans in the context of a genetic variant that increases the risk for obesity will help us understand some of the key biological pathways that are affected by this gene variant and influence obesity and related health outcomes.

The proposed research is relevant to public health because it will characterize energy metabolic mechanisms contributing to obesity in the context of a novel gene variant. This research is relevant to the mission of the IHI by advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of obesity and heart diseases in low and middle income countries.