Researchers at McMaster University (USA) have discovered new genetic evidence that helps to understand why some people tend to be happier than others . Specifically, they have found evidence that the FTO gene – one of the main genetic causes of obesity – is associated with a reduction in the risk of depression. In other words, in addition to an obesity gene, it could be considered a "happiness gene", as the study authors conclude in the journal Molecular Psychiatry .
Although they admit that the 8% difference found is modest, the scientists are satisfied to have identified a new molecular basis for unhappiness , as well as a link that relates depression and obesity at the brain level. Regardless of its relationship to body mass, say the authors of the work, there is no doubt that the obesity gene also protects against chronic sadness .
