FTO - Friend or Foe?

Fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) is the most relevant polygene for obesity to date. It has been identified by genome wide association studies concerning body weight regulation. However, its functional relevance for the pathogenesis of obesity remains elusive. Studies in rodents provide data pointing to a central role of FTO through regulation of food intake. In addition, peripheral effects of FTO are also discussed in the literature. This review highlights the possible relevance of FTO for weight regulation and obesity development in central and peripheral tissues with a special focus on adipose tissue.