The amount of build-up of fat in the deep belly, surrounding the abdominal organs- or visceral fat - is linked to insulin resistance, type diabetes and heart disease risk and so poses a particular health concern.

In a new study of lean and fat individuals, researchers found a blood test that can determine the amount of visceral fat: wherein the "retinol-binding protein 4" (RBP4) (produced in much greater amounts by visceral fat compared to the subcutaneous fat that lies just beneath the skin) was found in high concentrations in obese individuals as compared to those with normal weight.

According to Matthias Blüher of the University of Leipzig in Germany:

"We believe that in the near future, measurements of RBP4 serum concentrations might serve as a novel biomarker for visceral obesity and increased risk for type 2 diabetes and other adverse outcomes of visceral obesity. In addition, pharmacological interventions that reduce RBP4 levels might be a new approach in the treatment of metabolic syndrome and visceral obesity."

Findings have been reported in the July issue of Cell Metabolism.

Find more details from the full report.