New research which was assisted by a Kiwi scientist has unlocked the next piece of the puzzle when it comes to obesity

The research discovered what regulates MC4, the gene that controls appetite and can increase the risk of obesity.

Auckland University Associate Professor Kathy Mountjoy says it will allow drug companies to figure out how to target that gene with drugs.

She says that could mean obesity risk could be reduced without side effects that come along with other treatments.

Mountjoy says those side effects include high blood pressure and increased heart rate.