by A recent groundbreaking study on type 2 diabetes has identified 1,289 genetic markers linked with the disease, with 145 of these markers newly discovered. The research, conducted by a team of international experts and led by a genetic epidemiologist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, sheds light on the heritability of type 2 diabetes. Published in the journal Nature on February 19, the study utilized advanced computational methods to pinpoint eight distinct groups of genetic variants associated with the disease, as well as their connections to diabetes-related complications.
One of the lead authors, Cassandra Spracklen, explained that the team aimed to unravel the mechanisms through which these genetic markers influence the development of type 2 diabetes. By identifying these pathways, researchers hope to unveil potential genetic targets for treating or even curing the metabolic disorder that impacts over 400 million adults globally, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
The study, which stems from the Type 2 Diabetes Global Genomics Initiative, analyzed data from more than 2.5 million individuals, including 428,452 with type 2 diabetes. The findings revealed that the identified genetic clusters not only contribute to diabetes risk but are also associated with other factors like obesity and liver-lipid metabolism. Moreover, some of these clusters were linked to diabetes complications such as coronary artery disease and end-stage diabetic nephropathy.
Despite the availability of effective treatments for type 2 diabetes, personalized medicine options remain limited, leaving many patients to rely on trial-and-error approaches. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of the disease can enhance risk prediction and enable early interventions for individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
By delving into data from diverse cohorts, the researchers sought to gain insights into how genetic variants operate at a tissue or cellular level, potentially paving the way for new drug targets and therapies. Eleftheria Zeggini, senior corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in evaluating vast patient data to achieve a comprehensive understanding of genomic risk factors.
Zeggini highlighted that genetic information can offer crucial insights into the risks, progression, and complications of various diseases, leading to a better comprehension of disease-causing mechanisms. With a deeper understanding of the risks associated with type 2 diabetes complications, early interventions can be implemented to delay or prevent these severe medical conditions.
In conclusion, the study’s outcomes hold promise for enhancing global access to genetically-informed diabetes care, potentially revolutionizing the management of the disease.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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