The diet–gene interaction: FTO rs9939609 and its role in obesity and metabolic syndrome among Asian populations

Abstract Background The FTO rs9939609 gene variant has been widely studied for its role in obesity and metabolic syndrome, yet its interaction with dietary factors remains underexplored in Asian populations. Methods This review synthesizes evidence from studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 to examine how the A allele of rs9939609 influences metabolic outcomes when combined with specific dietary patterns. Findings Findings consistently show that carriers of the risk allele are more likely to consume energy-dense diets rich in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates, leading to increased adiposity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. These gene–diet interactions underscore the need for personalized nutrition strategies tailored to genetic susceptibility and cultural dietary habits. The review also highlights the role of epigenetic mechanisms and metabolic signaling pathways, such as m6A RNA methylation and AMPK, in mediating these effects. Conclusion Advancing precision nutrition through genotype-stratified interventions and integrating genomic tools into public health frameworks may offer promising avenues to mitigate the growing burden of metabolic disorders in Asia.