Molecular Mechanisms of Obesity in Children

Childhood obesity is a globally pervasive condition driven not only by lifestyle and environmental factors but also by complex molecular mechanisms. These mechanisms involve genetic predisposition, epigenetic regulation, hormonal signaling pathways, adipose tissue biology, immuno-inflammatory responses, and interactions with environmental endocrine disruptors. This review synthesizes current evidence from scientific articles, systematic reviews, and mechanistic studies to elucidate how molecular processes shape the development, onset, and progression of obesity in children. Understanding these pathways is critical for developing precise prevention strategies and targeted interventions.