06 Nov 2014 Blackmores Institute Genes shape body weight by affecting gut microbes twin study 06 Nov 2014 Share Share on LinkedIn Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Google+ Share on Pinterest News Our genetic makeup influences whether we are fat or thin by shaping which types of microbes thrive in our body, particularly the gut, according to a study on twins published in the journal Cell this week. The findings pave the way for personalised probiotic therapies that are optimized to reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases based on an individual's genetic makeup. × To continue reading this article, please Log In or Sign Up for access.