We plan to examine the potential mechanism(s) whereby RSPO3 regulates the functional properties of adipose precursors and thereby regional adipose depot size and function. Manipulation of RSPO3 expression and/or activity to achieve a more beneficial pattern of fat distribution and/or modulate adipose tissue function offers an alternative approach to treat obesity associated cardio-metabolic complications.

To firmly establish the genetic association between RSPO3 and (a) waist-circumference (b) WHR and (c) metabolic profile we seek to genotype the entire OBB and replicate our findings in an independent cohort (mothers of the ALSPAC cohort). In order to achieve this we require ?50 ng of DNA (at 5-10 ng/mcl conc.) to genotype the 3 relevant SNPs. In addition we require anthropometric and biochemical data as described above.