32^nd European Diabetes Congress

Influence of genetics on Diabetes

Several gene mutations have been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. These gene mutations can interact with the environment and each other to further increase your risk. Type 2 diabetes is caused by both genetic and environmental factors.
Scientists have linked several gene mutations to a higher diabetes risk. Not everyone who carries a mutation will get diabetes. But many people with diabetes do have one or more of these mutations.
It can be difficult to separate genetic risk from environmental risk. The latter is often influenced by your family members. For example, parents with healthy eating habits are likely to pass them on to the next generation. On the other hand, genetics plays a big part in determining weight.
Mutations in any gene involved in controlling glucose levels can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes. These include genes that control:

·         production of glucose

·         production and regulation of insulin

·         how glucose levels are sensed in the body

Genes associated with type 2 diabetes risk include:

·         TCF7L2, which affects insulin secretion and glucose production

·         ABCC8, which helps regulate insulin

·         CAPN10, which is associated with type 2 diabetes risk in Mexican-Americans

·         GLUT2, which helps move glucose into the pancreas

·         GCGR, a glucagon hormone involved in glucose regulation