Researchers at our Obesity Research Center are working at the cutting edge of obesity science. Obetech scientists have discovered that adenovirus-36 (Ad-36), a common human virus, causes obesity in several types of animals. Infected animals also have distinctive changes in their blood fats (cholesterol, triglycerides). Studies in people show an association of infection with Ad-36 and obesity. When infected by the Ad-36 virus, humans produce specific antibodies to help them fight off the infection. People who have been infected with Ad-36 are heavier and have the same distinctive changes in their blood fats as do infected animals.

Obetech has the technology to test humans for Ad-36 antibodies. A positive test means that a person has been exposed to this virus and the infection may have contributed to weight gain or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Normal weight people who have a positive test may be at risk for developing obesity, so they should see their primary care provider to institute a program of healthy eating, daily physical activity, and if indicated, treatment with drugs to prevent weight gain.