In the six research areas of the IFB (see below) work about 100 scientists. They scrutinze the causes, consequences, therapy and prevention approaches of obesity and its associated diseases. An external board monitors the different research projects within these areas.
Different hormones, so called adipokines, are produced in fat cells (adipocytes). These adipokines influence amongst others the human metabolism. Thus, the fat tissue is more than an energy depot.
Up to 70 percent of the heritability of the human body weight is ascribed to the genes and their interactions with environmental factors. The obesity risk genes are mainly active in the brain.
Severe overweight in children or adolescents means a high risk for adiposity in adulthood. Already young patients can develop the diseases associated with obesity, such as type-2-diabetes.
Obesity or bariatric surgery has gained acceptance in the previous years. The number of operations has grown strongly. The IFB examins the operation methods and their effects scientifically.
Modern imaging methods like positron emission tomography allow the exact depiction of brain structures and functions, as well as of the distribution and amount of neuro transmitters such as dopamine.
Psychosocial aspects like the living and working conditions, education, family, and social contacts are important for the emergence and the perpetuation of adiposity and its associated diseases.
