April 22, 2025 – A new scientific paper is shining light on the shared genetic roots of obesity in dogs and humans. Recently published in Science, the findings identify the gene DENND1B as a key player in weight gain across species, offering fresh insight into obesity and its biological underpinnings.
The publication stems from work conducted at the University of Cambridge, where researchers discovered that a specific variant of DENND1B is associated with increased body fat in Labrador retrievers. Each copy of the gene variant led to approximately 7–8% more body fat. Strikingly, DENND1B has also been linked to body mass index (BMI) in humans, based on data from the UK Biobank and other large-scale studies.
Researchers used genome-wide association studies (GWAS) focused on Labrador retrievers, known for their tendency toward obesity, to pinpoint genetic regions tied to body condition. DENND1B emerged as the most prominent signal. Through comparative genomics, the gene’s relevance was extended to human obesity research. Further laboratory analysis revealed that DENND1B influences the MC4R receptor in the hypothalamus, which plays a key role in regulating appetite and energy expenditure. Changes in DENND1B expression altered MC4R activity, suggesting a direct biological mechanism for weight gain.
“These results are important for veterinarians, their patients and clients,” said Dr. Kelly Diehl, Senior Director of Science Communication at Morris Animal Foundation. “We now know that obesity is more nuanced than owners simply overfeeding their dogs. A greater understanding of the factors contributing to obesity will allow veterinarians to individualize care for their patients that facilitates weight loss.”
This project used data from Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study and its Bette M. Morris Data Commons & Biorepository, a rich resource containing veterinary data and biological samples from over 3,000 enrolled golden retrievers. The Foundation also supported the study directly by funding postdoctoral fellow Dr. Anna Morros-Nuevo, one of the researchers involved in the project.
“This discovery underscores the incredible value of the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study and its data and samples,” said Dr. Julia Labadie, Principal Investigator of the Study. “The dedication of our Hero dogs, their families and veterinarians is making breakthroughs like this possible, for both dogs and people.”
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation's mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver, it is one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding nearly $170 million in more than 3,000 critical animal health studies to date across a broad range of species. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Media Contact: Lindsey Washington
