Genetic differences in the FADS1 gene determine the risk for many different diseases. The ability to produce polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 differs between individuals and this affects the risk for disturbed metabolism, inflammatory diseases and several types of cancer. Scientists at SciLifeLab/Uppsala University led by Claes Wadelius have clarified this in detail and the work is published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research.